ICKF Denounces Pahalgam Attack: Demands Action Against Jihadist Terrorism and Recognition of Kashmiri Pandit Genocide
This wasn’t just an act of terror—it was a clear continuation of the religious ideological war that began in the 1990s, leading to a bloody genocide and forced displacement of half a million original aborgines of Kashmir, the Kashmiri Pandits, one that has still not been named or confronted by the Indian state
Toronto, Canada, April 22, 2025: The Indo Canadian Kashmir Forum (ICKF) expresses deep sorrow and absolute outrage over the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, that took the lives of 26 innocent civilians and left many more injured. This horrific act, carried out in the peaceful Baisaran meadow, is yet another grim reminder of the jihadist violence that has long threatened the people of Jammu & Kashmir—and one that tragically echoes the trauma of the Kashmiri Pandit genocide.
“This wasn’t just an act of terror—it was a clear continuation of the religious ideological war that began in the 1990s, leading to a bloody genocide and forced displacement of half a million original aborgines of Kashmir, the Kashmiri Pandits, one that has still not been named or confronted by the Indian state,” said Vidya Bhushan Dhar, Director of ICKF. “For decades, the world has looked the other way as Kashmiri Pandits were terrorized, maimed, raped , murdered & systematically driven from their homeland. It’s time to officially recognize this genocide and act decisively against those who continue to glorify or shelter radical elements.”
ICKF strongly urges the Government of India to: Dismiss the ineffectual Omar Abdullah-led administration, which has repeatedly failed to safeguard innocent lives. Reinstate President’s Rule in Jammu & Kashmir to ensure impartial and uncompromised governance. Launch a nationwide campaign to dismantle terrorist ecosystems and expose their ideological backers.End the pretense of normalcy that obscures the persistent threat on the ground.
“Tourism cannot be used as a fig leaf to hide the reality of terror,” Dhar added. “There can be no healing, no real peace, without truth and accountability. Recognizing the genocide of Kashmiri Pandits is not just a demand—it is a national necessity.”
ICKF extends heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed and salutes the courage of India’s security personnel. Justice must be swift, and the root causes of this terror must be eradicated—not ignored or politically sanitized.
