India demands vengeance for Pahalgam, voices unite across nation against terrorism

The nation is seething with anger and grief after the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that left 26 people dead, including innocent tourists who were specifically targeted based on their religion. Wednesday saw an unprecedented shutdown across the Valley, as businesses, schools, and transport services came to a complete halt in protest.

Across Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, and several parts of India, protests erupted with people condemning the barbaric act as the "death of humanity." From trade associations to student groups, from political parties to religious organizations, the outrage was universal. Shops remained shuttered, roads wore a deserted look, and educational institutions were closed as civil society stood together in mourning and defiance.

Bashir Ahmad Kongposh of the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Association said, “Islam does not permit such killings. This is the death of humanity. We reject this terror.” His words echoed across the Valley as people marched carrying placards, waving the tricolor, and raising slogans against terrorism and Pakistan.

Political leaders across the spectrum condemned the attack. Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) and People's Democratic Party (PDP) called for a total shutdown, while leaders like Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah stood in solidarity with the victims' families. Bollywood stars like Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar expressed heartbreak on social media, calling the incident “unforgivable.” Cricketers, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, took to their platforms to mourn the loss of innocent lives.

In cities like Udhampur, Reasi, and Samba, students led marches, chanting patriotic slogans and demanding swift justice. In Ladakh, protests flared up with citizens waving banners stating "All Eyes on Pahalgam," symbolizing nationwide attention on the tragedy. Business communities in Poonch, Katra, and Kathua observed complete shutdowns in solidarity.

Security agencies have released sketches of three Pakistani terrorists suspected of carrying out the attack: Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy outfit of Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for this inhuman massacre.

For the first time, tourists were systematically targeted in Kashmir for their faith, a chilling new low that has sparked nationwide rage. Every corner of India—be it politics, sports, entertainment, or common citizens—is mourning the attack and calling for decisive action against terrorism.