Pahalgam Attack: Kashmir and Jammu Call for Shutdown in Protest and Mourning

April 22, 2025 | PTK News Desk | Srinagar

In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists and left several others critically injured, widespread condemnations have poured in from across Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred earlier today in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam, Anantnag district, when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists, triggering chaos and panic in the otherwise serene destination.

In response to the attack, major business and travel trade bodies across Kashmir have announced a complete shutdown on Wednesday, April 23, to express grief and protest against the violence. The bandh call has received strong support from various quarters, including trade associations, political leaders, student unions, religious figures, and civil society organizations.

The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industries (JCCI) has called for a Jammu bandh on Wednesday in solidarity with the victims, urging decisive action against the perpetrators and emphasizing unity against such cowardly acts that threaten peace and economic stability in the region.

On political front, the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) has officially joined the bandh call. In a statement issued on the instruction of the Party President, the JKNC stated:

“JKNC joins the collective call for a bandh in strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. We appeal to the people of J&K to ensure the hartal called by religious and social leaders is a complete success.”

The Central University of Kashmir (CUK) Students’ Union issued a powerful condemnation, expressing:

“We vehemently condemn this cowardly and heinous act of terrorism, which has shaken the very fabric of our society. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families. We stand in solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and call for decisive action to prevent such tragedies in the future.”

— Yasir Ganderbali, Chief Spokesperson, CUK Students’ Union

The Shah re Khass Traders and Chambers also endorsed the Kashmir bandh call, stating:

“Targeting tourists is not only an attack on innocent lives but also on the economic backbone of Kashmir. We support the bandh as a message of unity against terrorism and as a demand for justice.”

Further intensifying the protest response, the Jammu and Kashmir Transport Welfare Association has called for a complete ‘Chaka Jam’ (wheel strike) on Wednesday. In a statement, the association condemned the killings of innocent tourists and demanded concrete action to ensure such attacks are not repeated.

Political and religious figures, including Mehbooba Mufti, Mufti Azam Nasir Ul Islam, and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, have also called for a complete shutdown, terming the attack a direct assault on the region’s harmony and humanity.

As investigation and search operations continue in the area, Wednesday is set to witness a united bandh across Jammu and Kashmir, marking a collective moment of grief, resistance, and solidarity.

PTK News will continue to monitor and update this developing story.