Srinagar: As a mark of respect and solidarity with the families of the victims of Pahalgam militant attack, Private School Association Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) Tuesday said that educational institutes across Kashmir valley will remain closed on Wednesday.
PSAJK in a statement said, “In light of the tragic events, all private schools of Jammu and Kashmir will remain closed tomorrow as a mark of respect and solidarity with the families of the victims.”
It also said that “In response to this cowardly act of violence, the association has decided to observe one day of mourning and protest on April-23.”
“This decision is a testament to the association’s commitment to promoting peace and humanity in the region,” it reads.
The statement further said, “PSAJK is shocked and saddened by the recent terrorist attack at Pahalgam, Anantnag, which resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives,” it reads.
President of PSAJK, G N Var in his message said that “We strongly condemn the terrorist attack at Pahalgam and stand in solidarity with the families of the victims. Closing our schools is a small gesture to express our grief and outrage.”
On April 22, a devastating militant attack occured in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir. Around 2:30pm, gunmen emerged from nearby forests and opened fire on tourists enjoying the scenic spot, often referred to as ‘mini Switzerland’.
The attack resulted in the deaths of more than 25 persons, including 24 Indian tourists from various states, two locals from Jammu and Kashmir, and two foreign nationals—one Emirati and one Nepali. Among the victims was Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, a 26-year-old Indian Navy officer from Haryana, who had recently married on April 16 and was on his honeymoon.
Additionally, an Intelligence Bureau officer was killed in the assault. Over a dozen others sustained injuries, some critically.
The attack drew widespread condemnation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to Saudi Arabia at the time, cut his trip short and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice. GoI Home Minister Amit Shah travelled to Srinagar to assess the situation and coordinate the security response.
International leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, also condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with India.
