The Kashmir Dialogues
By M S Nazki
Another dark shadow has fallen over the Valley. The recent terror attack in Pahalgam was not merely an act of violence — it was a brutal assault on the very spirit of humanity. In a place renowned for its breathtaking beauty and serene charm, sudden gunfire shattered peace, turning moments of joy into tragedy, laughter into screams, and serenity into sorrow.
Families, children, and elderly tourists — ordinary people who had come seeking nature’s comfort — were caught in a heartless ambush. Some were injured. Others never returned. This was more than terrorism; it was a direct blow to the ideals of compassion, peace, and coexistence. It was a shameless attempt to stain the spirit of Kashmir, and to sabotage the collective efforts of those working tirelessly to rebuild peace and harmony in the region.
The attack stands as one of the most inhuman crimes imaginable — targeting innocent guests who had come only to admire the valley’s splendor. No ideology, no religion, no political grievance can ever justify such savagery. Tourism, a symbol of unity and shared humanity, was the target. The victims brought goodwill and dreams — and paid for it with their lives.
Kashmir has long borne the scars of conflict. But in recent years, there had been signs of hope. Tourists were returning, and with them, life was returning to the streets, markets, and mountains. Shikarawalas, pony riders, hotel owners, and artisans were beginning to dream again. This attack didn’t just take lives — it struck at the very heartbeat of Kashmir’s recovering economy and collective morale.
Once again, Kashmir is in the headlines — not for its beauty, but for violence. Yet the majority of Kashmiris yearn only for peace, progress, and dignity. They too are victims, for every act of terror damages their future. This tragedy drew swift and unified condemnation from across political parties, social organizations, and religious groups. The government vowed decisive action, and security has been ramped up to safeguard visitors and restore public confidence.
Nationwide, people stood in solidarity with the victims — offering prayers, support, and a powerful message: terrorism will not divide us. The international community, too, reacted with outrage and called for justice. Around the world, voices rose to declare: terror has no place in civil society.
But the most profound response came from the people of Pahalgam themselves. Locals rushed to help — donating blood, offering first aid, and comforting the wounded. In the face of horror, the Valley’s timeless tradition of “Mehman Nawazi” — hospitality and kindness to guests — shone through. Even in tragedy, Kashmir’s heart remained generous.
This brutal attack is a stark reminder that the battle against terror must be fought with unity, empathy, and unshakable resolve. We must resist those who seek to divide us, and together build a future rooted in peace, not fear. Political games must not be allowed to deepen the wounds or delay justice.
The Pahalgam attack was a crime against all humanity. Yet, while terror seeks to paralyze us with fear, we must respond with courage and unity. Let us honor those lost not just with words, but with unwavering commitment to a future where such bloodshed has no place. Terrorism has no religion, no justification, and no destiny — but humanity does. And it will always rise above hate.
M S Nazki
