Ganderbal: In a poignant display of solidarity, candlelight marches were held on Wednesday evening in the Chattergul area of Ganderbal and in Kangan town, both located in central Kashmir, to condemn the brutal killing of retired army personnel Manzoor Ahmad in a recent terrorist attack in Kulgam. The attack, which occurred on Monday afternoon, also left Ahmad’s wife and niece injured.
In Chattergul, the silent protest began after Maghrib prayers, attracting a large turnout of predominantly youth. Participants held placards with messages such as “Stop Innocent Killings” and “Stop Violence in Kashmir,” expressing their grief and outrage over the senseless act of violence. One protester emphasized, “This march sends a clear message that we will not be cowed by the atrocities of terrorists,” highlighting the community’s determination to stand against fear and intimidation.
Similarly, in Kangan, community members gathered to honor Ahmad’s memory, marching through the town with candles raised high. They denounced violence and called for an end to civilian killings, emphasizing that such acts are a violation of humanity. A participant remarked, “This is not just a loss for one family but a collective tragedy for society. Violence only brings pain and suffering.”
The marches reflected a strong call for action against those responsible for the violence, urging security forces to intensify their efforts to eliminate the threat of terrorism. Community members expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
As Kashmir continues to grapple with violence, participants in both marches reminded onlookers that the region is known for its rich culture and hospitality, and such acts of brutality tarnish its image both domestically and internationally. One speaker articulated the sentiment, stating, “
Since the 1990s, we have witnessed bloodshed in Kashmir; this is a grave injustice. Kashmir is known for its art and culture, welcoming guests with warmth, but such acts of violence send a troubling message both within the country and to the international community,” said Manzoor Ahmad.
The candlelight marches serve as a powerful reminder of the community’s resilience and collective demand for peace and justice in the face of ongoing violence.