AIP Senior Leader Adv Dawood Bashir Bhat Leads Candlelight March to Mourn Pahalgam Tourist Tragedy

Jahangir Lolabi

Lolab: In a heartfelt display of solidarity, a massive candlelight march was held in Lalpora town on Tuesday evening to condemn the recent brutal killings of tourists in Pahalgam. The peaceful protest was led by Awami Itihad Party (AIP) senior leader Advocate Davood Bashir Bhat, President of Auqaaf Islamia Lalpora Mahmood Ul Hasan, and President of the Traders Federation Lalpora Abid Hassan Wani.

Hundreds of residents, shopkeepers, and respectable members gathered at the main market of Lalpora to pay tribute to the victims and express their collective grief over the shocking attack that claimed the lives of over two dozen tourists.

The leaders, while addressing the gathering, termed the incident as “barbaric and inhuman,” urging the authorities to ensure swift justice for the victims and their families.

They strongly condemned the violence and called for united efforts to preserve peace and communal harmony in the Kashmir region.

Participants held candles and placards that read messages of peace, unity and justice. The march concluded with prayers for the departed souls and appeals for an end to such acts of violence.

Local residents emphasized the importance of maintaining Kashmir’s age-old tradition of hospitality and brotherhood, particularly towards guests and tourists who contribute significantly to the region’s economy and cultural exchange. They also mentioned experiencing it firsthand, as the entire valley came to a standstill following the militant attack.

Similar reports of candlelight march were also reported from different parts of the Lolab including Chandigam, Sogam, and it’s adjoining areas.

Authorities have launched a high-level investigation into the Pahalgam incident, and heightened security measures have been put in place across major tourist destinations in the Valley.