For the first time in 35 years, Kashmir valley observed a complete shutdown on Wednesday in a powerful and unified protest against the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. The bandh, which saw participation from all sections of society, was called to denounce the killing of innocent tourists at the popular Baisaran meadows in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
The unprecedented call for a valley-wide shutdown was supported by a broad spectrum of political parties, religious bodies, trade associations, civil society groups, and educational institutions. Shops, fuel stations, and business establishments remained closed in Srinagar and other district headquarters. Only essential services operated, and public transport was minimal, though private vehicles continued to ply.
Private schools across Jammu and Kashmir remained shut in response to the call by the Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK), while government schools remained open. Kashmir University also postponed all examinations scheduled for the day.
Peaceful protests were held in various parts of the valley, with demonstrators urging an end to the violence and calling for justice for the victims. Slogans condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with the bereaved families were raised across protest sites.
Major political parties, including the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples’ Conference, and Apni Party, lent their support to the shutdown. Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU), a coalition of religious organizations led by Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also called upon people to observe the shutdown as a mark of protest and solidarity.
Trade and tourism bodies like the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries and the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation joined the bandh, highlighting the collective grief and outrage that transcended political and social boundaries.
Security has been significantly tightened across the Kashmir valley in the wake of the attack. Additional forces have been deployed at vital installations, tourist locations, and city entry-exit points. Security personnel conducted extensive checks and frisking operations across districts, with a special focus on areas with tourist movement.
A massive manhunt is currently underway in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, as security forces work to track down the four LeT terrorists responsible for the attack. The deployment of additional forces in Pahalgam underscores the seriousness of the ongoing security operation.
The rare valley-wide shutdown marks a pivotal moment in the public’s response to terrorism in Kashmir, signaling both a deep sense of mourning and a resolute stand against violence.
