Vishaw Kashmiri Samaj Pays Solemn Tribute to Victims of Terrorism Following Successful Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra

Jammu/Srinagar, June 05, 2025—Following the peaceful and spiritually fulfilling conclusion of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra 2025, the Vishaw Kashmiri Samaj, under the auspices of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra Welfare Society, offered a deeply moving tribute to all those who have fallen victim to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The Samaj expressed profound sorrow and unwavering solidarity with the families of those recently lost in the tragic terror attacks in Pahalgam and Poonch, extending this compassion to include the members of the security forces who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the nation.

Overwhelmed with emotion, the community also paid homage to the Kashmiri Pandits who were brutally targeted and killed during the horrific genocide and mass exodus of the 1990s. The Samaj acknowledged the enduring pain and sacrifice of these victims, their suffering remaining a stark reminder in the collective memory. The Samaj reiterated its longstanding demand for justice, national recognition, and proper remembrance of these victims at a national level.

As a tangible expression of this tribute, candles burned brightly and prayers were offered at Tulmulla, the sacred site of Mata Kheer Bhawani. A two-minute silence provided a solemn moment of reflection, honoring the martyrs. Community members, pilgrims, and volunteers participated in the Shradhanjali Sabha, offering floral tributes and providing much-needed emotional support to bereaved families throughout the region.

Sh. M.K. Yogi, General Secretary of the Vishaw Kashmiri Samaj, stated, “While the successful Yatra stands as a testament to communal harmony and exemplary administrative efforts, we cannot ignore the painful realities that continue to afflict our homeland. The lives lost—soldiers, civilians, and displaced community members alike—deserve to be remembered with dignity; their sacrifices must be honored through concrete action, not merely words.”

He further emphasized the urgent need for a stronger national resolve in combating terrorism. He renewed the Samaj’s calls for the rehabilitation, security, and proper recognition of the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community. Sh. Kiran Wattal, Convener of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra Welfare Society, also expressed profound grief and reiterated the community’s unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and remembrance. Sh. Prem Sharma (Vice Chairman), Sh. Ravi Ji Bakshi (Chief Coordinator), Sh. Kamal Krishan Ganjoo (Public Relations Incharge), numerous youth volunteers, and countless community members participated in this solemn event.

The Vishaw Kashmiri Samaj implores the government and all segments of society to unite against terrorism and ensure that the voices of the victims, both past and present, are never silenced and are forever remembered.