Indians in US hold vigil for Pahalgam terror attack victims

In a tribute to the victims of recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, USA-based members of the Indian community led by Phagwara-based Dr Romesh Japra, who is Chairman, Fremont Hindu Temple, San Francisco, held a candlelight vigil.

Joining him on the solemn occasion were Captain Krishna Sharma, Rakesh Mehta, Vikram Pal and social activist Raman Nehra. The gathering observed a moment of silence and lit candles in memory of the 26 innocent civilians brutally killed by Pakistani-backed terrorists in Kashmir.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Japra, a renowned cardiologist of USA, strongly condemned the attack, labelling it a “cowardly act” and emphasised that “no religion permits such brutality against unarmed civilians”. He demanded that Pakistan be held accountable and punished for its continued support of terrorism.

Dr Ramesh Japra echoed the sentiments, calling the incident “tragic and condemnable”. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to take strict action against anti-national terrorist groups and ensure peace and prosperity in the region. The community leaders also appealed for government jobs and compensation for the families of the victims.

Highlighting Kashmir’s integral role in India’s history and culture, Nehra said, “Kashmir has always been an inseparable part of India. The fragrance of Indian civilisation lives in its air. Pakistan will never succeed in its dream of taking Kashmir.”

Also present at the event were Rajesh Verma, Chandru Bhambra, Govind and Sandeep Deswal, among others.