Toronto — The Indo Canadian Kashmir Forum (ICKF) has strongly denounced the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians and left several others injured. The attack, which took place in the serene Baisaran meadow—a site known for its natural beauty and tourist appeal—has drawn global outrage and renewed concerns over the persistent threat of jihadist violence in the region.
In a press statement issued from Toronto, ICKF expressed deep sorrow and called the attack a chilling reminder of the trauma suffered by the Kashmiri Pandit community during the 1990s. “This wasn’t just an act of terror—it was a continuation of the religious ideological war that forced the displacement of half a million original aborigines of Kashmir,” said Vidya Bhushan Dhar, Director of ICKF.
Dhar further criticized the silence and inaction surrounding what he described as the “genocide” of Kashmiri Pandits. “For decades, the world has looked the other way while Pandits were terrorized, raped, and murdered. It’s time to officially recognize this genocide and act decisively against those who glorify or shelter radical elements,” he stated.
The organization has issued a set of urgent demands to the Indian government:
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Immediate dismissal of the Omar Abdullah-led administration in Jammu & Kashmir, citing its repeated failure to protect citizens.
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Restoration of President’s Rule in the region to ensure effective and unbiased governance.
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A nationwide crackdown on terror networks and their ideological supporters.
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An end to the portrayal of normalcy in Kashmir which, according to ICKF, masks the ongoing threats faced by local communities.
“Tourism cannot be used as a fig leaf to hide the reality of terror,” Dhar added, calling for truth and accountability as prerequisites for lasting peace. “Recognizing the genocide of Kashmiri Pandits is not just a demand—it is a national necessity.”
In closing, the ICKF offered its condolences to the families of the victims and praised the efforts of Indian security forces. The forum emphasized that justice must be swift, and the root causes of terror need to be eliminated rather than ignored or politically diluted.
