KCC&I Leads Unified Protest Against Pahalgam Killings: Calls for Shutdown and Sit-In Demonstration
Srinagar 23 April 2025: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I) convened a Special Executive Committee Meeting, bringing together Executive Committee members, affiliated associations, and general members to address the tragic killings of innocent civilians in Baisaran, Pahalgam. The Chamber unanimously passed a resolution condemning the barbaric act, describing it as a direct assault on Kashmir’s values of peace, hospitality, and resilience.
A Unified Call for Protest
In response to the tragedy, the KCC&I has called for a complete shutdown across Kashmir, a move that has been widely supported by businesses, trade bodies, and civil society. The shutdown aims to send a strong message of solidarity with the victims and their families while denouncing the violence that threatens the region’s stability and economic revival.
Peaceful Sit-In Protest at Ghanta Ghar
As part of the protest, the Chamber has announced a peaceful sit-in demonstration at Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) today at 2:00 PM.
- Participants: All trader bodies, travel and tourism associations, heads of business commerce chambers, affiliated organizations, and members of the Chamber have been urged to join the protest.
- Objective: The sit-in aims to highlight the collective grief and outrage of Kashmir’s business community while demanding justice for the victims.
KCC&I President to Address Media
The President of KCC&I will address the media at Ghanta Ghar, sharing the Chamber’s stance on the killings and outlining the urgent need for action to prevent such atrocities in the future.
- Key Points of Address:
- Condemnation of the attack and its impact on Kashmir’s economy and tourism.
- Call for enhanced security measures in high-tourist zones like Pahalgam.
- Appeal for unity among stakeholders to safeguard Kashmir’s identity and values.
Impact on Kashmir’s Economy
The killings in Pahalgam have cast a dark shadow over Kashmir’s tourism sector, which serves as a lifeline for thousands of families.
- Tourism Under Threat: The attack risks deterring visitors, leading to cancellations and financial losses for hoteliers, transport operators, and travel agencies.
- Economic Ripple Effect: The shutdown, while necessary as a mark of protest, underscores the fragility of Kashmir’s economy in the face of violence.
A Call for Unity and Action
The KCC&I has emphasized the need for collective action to ensure such tragedies are not repeated. The Chamber has called on the government, security forces, and civil society to work together to restore peace and confidence in the region.
“This is not just a protest—it is a call for justice, unity, and resilience. Kashmir’s business community stands firm in its commitment to peace and progress,” said the KCC&I President.
————————— NO: KCC&I/PN/04/2025/4425 23RD April, 2025 —————————
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I) convened a Special Executive Committee Meeting attended by all Executive Committee members, affiliated Associations, and general members. During the meeting, the Chamber unanimously passed a resolution strongly condemning the deplorable killing of innocent people in Baisaran, Pahalgam.
As a mark of protest against these dastardly killings, the KCC&I’s call for a complete shutdown has been followed by all in Kashmir.
The Chamber has announced that it will hold a peaceful sit-in protest at Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) today at 2:00 PM. All trader bodies, travel and tourism associations, heads of business commerce chambers, affiliated organisations, associations and members of the Chamber are requested to participate in the sit-in protest.
President of KCC&I will address the media at Ghanta Ghar.
Faiz Ahmad Bakshi
Secretary-General
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry INC.
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