Srinagar: A complete shutdown was observed in the towns of Kupwara and Handwara on Tuesday, April 22, in response to the deadly terrorist attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, mostly of tourists. The attack, which occurred at the scenic Baisaran meadow, has triggered widespread condemnation and unrest across the region, with residents marking the day as a Black Day to mourn the victims and protest the violence.
Shops, businesses, and educational institutions across both towns remained closed, and public transport was largely off the roads as part of the protest. Black flags were seen waving in several areas, while peaceful demonstrations took place across various districts, including in the Kupwara and Handwara regions. The protests were a mark of solidarity with the victims and a call for justice.
In response to the attack, security has been tightened in sensitive areas, with authorities working to prevent any untoward incidents while investigations into the terrorist attack continue. The incident has also sparked significant political reactions, with the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Conference (JKPC) organizing a peaceful protest march to condemn the killings.
The march was led by District Development Council (DDC) Chairman of Kupwara, Irfan Sultan Panditpuri, and DDC member from Rajwar Handwara, Mir Sulaiman. Senior party members, including Sheikh Ashiq Hussain, also participated in the demonstration, expressing deep sorrow and demanding action.
Mir Sulaiman, while addressing the media, expressed his grief over the incident. “Every Kashmiri has been in a state of grief and depression since the tragic event in Pahalgam. We urge the higher authorities of the nation to address this issue immediately,” he said. He also emphasized that Kashmiris are known for their hospitality and peace-loving nature. “We want peace, not terrorism,” he added, urging unity and swift action to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
