PULWAMA (J&K): Youth activists, members of the traders’ federation and representatives from civil society came together to hold a candlelight protest in Pulwama on Tuesday.
The protest was organised to condemn the killing of Deepu Sharma, who was shot dead by terrorists on Monday. Sharma worked with a circus at an amusement park in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
Expressing his deep sorrow and condemning the tragic incident, Mudasir Dar, who was leading the protest, said, “Today, we stand here united, voices echoing our collective outrage against this brutal act. Deepu’s life was snatched away from us, leaving behind a void that can never be filled.”
“We condemn this act of violence in the strongest possible terms and demand swift action from the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Dar said.
The protest witnessed a significant turnout, with various community leaders and individuals coming together to express their solidarity. Among the prominent participants was Javaid Ahmad Bhat, an esteemed entrepreneur who has been actively involved in social initiatives aimed at uplifting the community.
The president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries-Kashmir (CCIK) Pulwama Fayaz Ahmad Wani, who has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and welfare of local businesses, was also present.
The protesters gathered at Main Market in Pulwama and marched through the streets, holding candles and placards with powerful messages denouncing terrorism and advocating for peace. The peaceful demonstration symbolised their determination to stand strong against violence and unite as a community.
Wani urged the attendees to channel their grief and anger into constructive action. “Let Deepu’s memory ignite a flame of change within us. It is time for us to come together, regardless of our differences, and work towards eradicating the roots of violence. We must build a community that upholds peace, justice, and unity,” he said.
The candlelight protest in Pulwama served as a poignant reminder that the fight against terrorism requires collective effort. It highlighted the resolve of the community to seek justice for Deepu and create a society where such incidents become a thing of the past.