Business, Civil Society Called Bandh After Pahalgam Carnage
KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, April 22: Widespread outrage has gripped the Kashmir Valley after a horrifying terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran area left 26 tourists dead and many others injured, including foreign nationals. The incident at Pahalgam has been described as one of the most brutal civilian attacks in recent memory and has drawn condemnation from across the socio-political and business spectrum.
In response, all major business, tourism, and civil society organizations have jointly called for a complete Kashmir Bandh on Wednesday, April 23, to mourn the victims and register strong protest against the terror strike. The bandh is expected to bring normal life to a halt with commercial establishments, transport services, and public activities likely to remain shut.
The call for shutdown was announced collectively by the Chamber of Commerce and Industries Kashmir (CCIK), Jammu and Kashmir Hoteliers Club (JKHC), All Travel Associations, transporters, restaurant owners, and several civil society groups.
Speaking on behalf of the business community, Tariq Rashid Ghani, President of CCIK, said, “We have called for Kashmir Bandh on Wednesday against this barbaric act of violence. It is imperative that we stand united to condemn such atrocities and express solidarity with the victims.”
The Pahalgam terror attack has particularly jolted the tourism industry, which was witnessing a positive revival. Leaders from the hotel and travel sectors have expressed grief and anger, calling it a direct assault on Kashmir’s identity of hospitality and peace.
Mushtaq Ahmed Chaya, Chairman of the JKHC, along with hoteliers from Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, condemned the killings in the strongest terms. “This is a despicable act of cowardice. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families. Kashmiris have always welcomed guests with warmth—this violence seeks to destroy that very essence, but it will not succeed,” he said.
Tariq Ghani, Secretary General of JKHC, emphasized that the incident goes against the fundamental ethos of Jammu and Kashmir. “This is absolutely unacceptable. Such barbarity stands in stark contrast to the values of peace and hospitality that define our land.”
Echoing similar sentiments, A P Vicky Shaw, Chairman of PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industries Kashmir (PHDCCI), stated, “Targeting innocent tourists is an inhuman act. We demand an immediate high-level inquiry and justice for the victims. The tourism sector is vital to our economy, and such acts aim to paralyze its progress.”
The PHDCCI has also urged all business establishments to observe the April 23 shutdown as a symbolic gesture of resistance and mourning. “The business community must send a clear message—terrorism will not be tolerated, and our resolve will not be broken,” Shaw said.
Meanwhile, Akib Chaya, President of Hotelier Club Gulmarg, issued a strongly worded statement describing the attack as “a desperate attempt to halt the return of peace and harmony in the Valley.” He called for immediate and stringent action against the perpetrators, asserting, “Justice must be swift and uncompromising. These evil elements must find no refuge—ever.”
The Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) also condemned the attack in what it called a “dastardly and inhumane act.” KTA President Aijaz Shahdhar warned that such attacks are not only against innocent lives but are also aimed at damaging Kashmir’s economy and reputation. “We urge all stakeholders to unite and ensure that the safety of every visitor is guaranteed,” he said.
A joint press conference by business and trade bodies is scheduled for Tuesday at Radisson Collection in Srinagar, where further steps to safeguard tourism and oppose terrorism will be deliberated.
As Kashmir mourns the loss of lives in this senseless act of violence, the unified voice of its business community has sent a clear message: peace, hospitality, and solidarity will continue to define the region’s spirit—terror will not be allowed to dictate its future.
