Kashmir, Jammu to observe complete shutdown to protest tourist killings
Srinagar/Jammu, Apr 22: Kashmir and Jammu would observe a complete shutdown on Wednesday to display collective grief and protest against the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 tourists on Tuesday.
The shutdown, termed Kashmir Bandh and Jammu Bandh, is jointly called by business chambers, trade bodies, transporters, students, and civil society groups in additional to political parties including National Conference, Peoples Democratic Party, and Apni Party in a rare show of cross-regional solidarity.
Tariq Rashid Ghani, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries Kashmir (CCIK), said the bandh will be a collective act of mourning and resistance.
“We have called for Kashmir Bandh on April 23 against this barbaric act of violence. It is a stand not just for justice but for the values we hold dear—peace, hospitality, and humanity,” he said.
The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) echoed the sentiment.
“This is not just an assault on our visitors—it is an attack on the very identity of Kashmir,” FCIK said in a statement. “This Bandh is a message of unity, resilience, and remembrance. Let the world see that Kashmir stands with the victims, not in silence, but in resolute, peaceful protest.”
In Jammu, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and J&K High Court Bar Association (JKHCBA) jointly called for a total bandh.
“Jammu will remain completely shut tomorrow. There will be a total chakka jam (road blockade) across the region,” JCCI President Arun Gupta said.
The J&K Students Association also threw its weight behind the bandh call, urging political leaders and civil society to rise above differences.
“This tragic assault is not just an attack on a few individuals; it is an attack on the very soul of Jammu & Kashmir,” a JKSA spokesperson said.
Protest demonstrations and candlelight vigils were held in several districts including Rajouri, Kathua, Ramban, and Reasi, with slogans condemning terrorism and affirming solidarity with the victims.
