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In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives and injured over 20, renowned music composer Salim Merchant has publicly condemned the violence, expressing deep sorrow and shame.
In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, Merchant stated, “The innocent people were killed in Pahalgam because they were Hindus. Are the killers Muslims? No. They are terrorists.” He emphasized that such acts have no place in any religion and quoted the Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 256: “There is no compulsion in religion.”
Visibly emotional, Merchant added, “As a Muslim, I feel ashamed and heartbroken watching my Hindu brothers and sisters being brutally murdered simply for their identity. When will this hatred end? Kashmir had finally begun to heal, and now this.”
Comedian Munawar Faruqui echoed Merchant’s sentiments, reposting the video with the caption “facts!” and sharing his own message: “God does not forgive breaking someone’s heart. Let alone spilling the blood of an innocent. Justice will fall behind, and politics will once again lead. Mourning on my land has become a daily affair.”
The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, was one of the deadliest in the region in recent years. Militants opened fire on a group of tourists, leading to widespread condemnation across the nation.
In response, the Jammu and Kashmir government announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and compensation for the injured.
Merchant concluded his message with a prayer: “May God give strength to the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for peace in their hearts. Om Shanti.”
Also Read : A Martyr’s Legacy: Naksh Kalathia’s Voice Rises from the Shadows of Pahalgam 2025
