KCC&I: Standing United Against Violence, Protecting Kashmir’s Integrity
Respected Members of the Press,
On behalf of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCC&I), an apex trade body, we extend our sincere gratitude to the people of Kashmir for observing a complete shutdown yesterday in protest against the barbaric attack on innocent civilians in Baisaran, Pahalgam.
We also thank the media personnel present here today, recognizing their role in conveying the truth during difficult times.
Let us be clear—this is not about business losses; this is about human losses. With a heavy heart and immense sorrow, we gather here today to condemn this inhumane act, which has shaken the Valley and its values to the core.
Kashmir Rejects Violence
Kashmir has always been known for its hospitality, warmth, and cultural richness. This attack does not represent our people or our identity, and we denounce such brutality in the strongest possible terms. Acts like these have no place in our society, no place in our values.
Urgent Appeal for Protection of Kashmiris
While we mourn those who lost their lives, we are also deeply disturbed by the rising harassment of Kashmiri students and businesspersons across India.
Reports indicate that Kashmiris living outside J&K are facing intimidation, discrimination, and eviction. This is unacceptable, and we call upon the Central Government, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah to intervene immediately and ensure their safety, dignity, and protection.
Shutdown Was More Than Protest—It Was A Message
The Valley-wide shutdown on Wednesday was not just an act of resistance; it was a united stand against violence, against innocent killings, and against injustice.
- We stand with the victims—their loss is immeasurable, and we share in their grief.
- We reaffirm our commitment to peace, security, and human life above any economic considerations.
A Message to Tourists: Kashmir Remains Safe and Welcoming
To those who continue to visit Kashmir or plan to explore its beauty in the future, we assure you that Kashmir remains a safe and hospitable destination.
- Kashmiris uphold centuries-old traditions of hospitality, ensuring the safety and comfort of every guest.
- We will not allow violence to define our land—Kashmir’s spirit stands strong.
Closing Remarks: Moving Forward in Unity
We are not here to discuss business losses—we are here to mourn, stand together, and reaffirm our commitment to a future where innocent lives are protected, peace prevails, and Kashmir prospers.
The KCC&I remains dedicated to working with all stakeholders to safeguard human dignity and promote peace, security, and prosperity in Kashmir.
——————– PRESS NOTE ——————–
NO:KCC&I/PN/04/2025/ 4433 24TH APRIL, 2025
RESPECTED MEMBERS OF THE PRESS,
First and foremost, on behalf of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry- an apex trade body, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the people of Kashmir for observing a complete shutdown yesterday in protest against the dastardly attack on innocent civilians in Baisaran, Pahalgam.
I would also like to thank the media personnel for their presence here today.
Let me be clear: we are not gathered here to discuss business losses. We are here to mourn human losses. It is with a heavy heart and extreme sadness that we address you regarding this tragic and inhumane incident in Pahalgam..
The people of Kashmir denounce this violence in the strongest possible terms. Such acts have no place in our society, in our culture, or in our values. Kashmir has always been known for its hospitality.
At the same time, numerous reports are coming from different parts of the country that Kashmiri students and businessmen are being harassed for being Kashmiris.
While our hearts are bleeding for those who were killed and our prayers are with their families. We appeal to the Central Government, Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, Lieutenant Governor, J&K, Shri Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister, Shri Omar Abdullah, to intervene and ensure the safety of Kashmiris living outside J&K.
The Shutdown on Wednesday across the Valley was not merely a protest; it is a message that the business community and the people of Kashmir stand united against innocent killings and violence in all its forms. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Their loss is immeasurable, and we share in their grief.
KCC&I recognises that our responsibility does not end with calling for a shutdown. We would like to emphatically reiterate that for the KCCI, human lives come far above any business considerations. Our primary concern is and always will be the sanctity of human life and the peace and security of all people in Kashmir.
To the tourists who continue to visit Kashmir or are planning to do so in the future, we want to assure you that Kashmir remains a safe and welcoming destination. Kashmiris historically are committed to upholding our age-old traditions of hospitality and ensuring the safety and comfort of our guests..
In closing, I would like to emphasise once more that we are not here to talk about business losses; it is human losses that we mourn. The KCCI remains committed to working with all stakeholders to promote peace, security, and prosperity in Kashmir.
Javid Ahmad Tenga
President
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry INC.
2ND FLOOR, MOHIDIN TRUST BUILDING, RESIDENCY ROAD,
SRINAGAR-KASHMIR-190001
TEL: 0194-2455446/2482176
FAX : 0194: 2452517
E-MAIL : thekashmirchamber@gmail.com
Website : www.thekcci.in
