Kashmir Mourns: PSAJK and MMU Lead Shutdowns in Wake of Pahalgam Terror Attack
Srinagar 23 April 2025: The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of innocent tourists, has sent shockwaves across Jammu and Kashmir, plunging the region into grief and outrage. In response to this heinous act, the Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) has announced the closure of schools across the Union Territory as a mark of mourning. Simultaneously, the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), a prominent religious body, has called for a shutdown tomorrow to condemn the killings and express solidarity with the victims.
PSAJK: Education Sector Stands in Solidarity
The PSAJK, representing thousands of private schools across Jammu and Kashmir, has taken a firm stand, emphasizing the need to honor the victims and reflect on the broader implications of such violence.
- Statement from PSAJK: The association expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of lives, stating that the attack is not just an assault on individuals but on the very fabric of Kashmir’s identity as a land of hospitality and peace.
- School Closures: All private schools will remain closed for a day, allowing students, teachers, and families to mourn collectively and send a message of unity against terror.
MMU’s Call for Shutdown: A Unified Voice Against Violence
The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), a coalition of religious leaders and scholars, has called for a Valley-wide shutdown tomorrow to condemn the killings in Pahalgam.
- Religious Leaders Speak: The MMU has urged people to come together in prayer and solidarity, emphasizing that such acts of violence are against the teachings of Islam and humanity.
- Community Appeal: The MMU has called on citizens to observe the shutdown peacefully, urging businesses, transport operators, and other sectors to join in the collective expression of grief and condemnation.
The Broader Impact: A Region in Mourning
The Pahalgam attack has cast a dark shadow over Jammu and Kashmir, a region striving to rebuild its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for tourists.
- Tourism Under Threat: The attack, targeting tourists in one of Kashmir’s most serene locations, risks deterring visitors and impacting the livelihoods of thousands dependent on the tourism industry.
- Economic Ripple Effect: With schools closed and businesses expected to shut down during the MMU-led strike, the region faces immediate economic disruptions, further compounding the challenges posed by the attack.
A Call for Unity and Action
Both PSAJK and MMU have emphasized the need for collective action to ensure such tragedies are not repeated. Their initiatives reflect a shared commitment to preserving Kashmir’s identity as a land of peace and resilience.
- Strengthening Security: The attack highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures, particularly in high-tourist zones like Pahalgam.
- Community Engagement: Religious and educational institutions play a crucial role in fostering unity and resilience, ensuring that the voices of peace and progress prevail over those of violence.
