The Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives—the majority of whom were tourists—has shaken Jammu and Kashmir to its roots. Protests have broken out all over the Valley, with irate locals and political parties calling for quick justice.

Even as the Indian Army ramps up its hunt for the four terrorists, the Valley has seen something not seen in decades—a civil society-called shutdown to condemn terrorism. PM Narendra Modi has shortened his Saudi Arabia visit, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah went to Srinagar to offer his condolences. With the increasing tension, Kashmir stands at a crucial juncture.

Protests Erupt Across Kashmir Valley

Locals protested in marches in towns such as Tangmarg, Ganderbal, Srinagar, Doda, and Kishtwar. All communities were against the killings. Their message was one—violence had to stop. Residents called for the terrorists to be acted against. Demonstrators waved placards and chanted slogans, showing their anger and sorrow.

#WATCH | #PahalgamTerroristAttack | Jammu, J&K | Dogra Front chief Ashok Gupta says, “… My Hindus have become so weak… They were killed one by one… We are not going to tolerate this anymore… Pakistan is broke, yet they are able to attack us… The time has come to crush… https://t.co/9CqvWLyJ2T pic.twitter.com/LoWeOCxIT7

— ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2025

Hindu organization members also came out on the streets. Dogra Front leader Ashok Gupta denounced his anger when he said, “Pakistan is bankrupt, but they continue to attack us. Now is the time to retaliate and support Balochistan.”

National Leadership Swings Into Action

PM Narendra Modi returned from Saudi Arabia a day ahead of time. He held meetings with NSA Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and EAM S Jaishankar shortly after his arrival. The government has assured decisive action.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah took a trip to Srinagar, paid homage on the victims’ coffins, and took stock of security readiness.

Valley Observes Historic Shutdown

For the first time in 35 years, Kashmir saw a total shutdown to protest a terror attack. Bazaars, fuel pumps, and businesses in Srinagar and other districts were closed. Only essential services were open. Private schools were shut, but government schools were open. Public transport was thin, but private cars moved around.

This period may be a new phase. Shutdowns in Kashmir for decades were due to political or separatist appeals. But this bandh was from common folk, irrespective of religious or political affiliations.

Their common refrain was: Kashmiris abhor violence and want peace. This change may well herald the emergence of civil-led resistance against terrorism—a much-needed voice in the Valley’s dialogue process.