Srinagar, Feb 4: The citizens of Lolab Valley expressed their angst against the perpetrators of the cowardly assassination of the retd Soldier in Kulgam and showed their solidarity with the bereaved family by taking out candle marches and peaceful protests. People from all walks of life including Families of serving and retired army personnel, students, social activists, businessmen and masjid imams, have unequivocally condemned the brutal attack. The incident has sparked outrage, with widespread protests and demands for stringent action against the culprits.
Residents from Sogam, Tekipora, Dardpora, Rednag Warnow, Khurama and all other villages of Lolab Valley staged peaceful protests and took out candle marches expressing their deep anguish over the incident. Holding placards and raising slogans, they demanded justice for the victims and urged authorities to take strict measures to prevent such attacks in the future. "It is too condemnable and inhumane to attack anyone or their family, especially someone who has served the nation by dedicating years of their life to its safety," said a protester.
Majid, a local leader, emphasized the need for collective action, stating, "Today, it is a family in Kulgam. Tomorrow, it could be anyone. We must raise our voices unequivocally against such enemies of peace." Social activists and masjid imams also joined the protest, condemning the attack and calling for justice. "Such violence is unacceptable in any civil society. We stand united in demanding strict punishment for the culprits," said a masjid imam.
In a strong show of solidarity, a peaceful candlelight march was held in Sogam, where ex-servicemen, local youth, and religious leaders gathered to condemn the attack. Participants carried banners denouncing the violence and urged the administration to ensure justice. "This march is our way of standing with the victim's family and demanding accountability. Such heinous crimes must not be repeated," said Mr Bashir Ah Lone, Chairman Sogam Traders Association.
Expressing frustration over the attack, families of servicemen and ex-servicemen appealed to both the Central and UT governments, along with security agencies, to take stringent action against those responsible. They also called for stronger measures to safeguard those who have served the nation. Authorities are yet to make an official statement regarding the incident, but pressure is mounting for swift action against the culprits.
