The Biz Reporter

SRINAGAR, APR 25– In a powerful show of solidarity, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I) announced plans to visit the families of tourists killed in the Pahalgam attack, receiving full backing from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during a high-level meeting at SKICC today.

The sombre gathering, which brought together government officials, civil society representatives, and business leaders, began with a minute’s silence for the innocent civilians who lost their lives in the April 22 attack at Baisaran.

“This is not about business losses,” declared KCC&I President Javid Ahmad Tenga in his address. “This is about standing together as humans in the face of an assault on our cherished traditions of hospitality and brotherhood.”

Tenga revealed the Chamber’s decision to personally visit all bereaved families in the coming days, describing the attack as “a direct assault on humanity and Kashmir’s renowned culture of hospitality.”

The KCC&I President also highlighted the heroic actions of local residents who rushed to rescue visitors, particularly Syed Adil, who sacrificed his life while saving others during the incident.

In addition to expressing solidarity with victims, Tenga raised urgent concerns about reports of harassment targeting Kashmiris in other parts of India following the attack. He called on the Chief Minister to implement immediate protective measures for Kashmiri students, businesspeople, and travelers facing intimidation outside the region.

Chief Minister Abdullah strongly endorsed the KCC&I initiative, pledging full government support for their visits to victims’ families. “This compassionate gesture will send positive signals across the country during this challenging time,” the Chief Minister stated.

The KCC&I delegation at the meeting included President Javid Ahmad Tenga, Senior Vice President Ashiq Hussain Shangloo, and Secretary General Faiz Ahmad Bakshi.