On April 22, Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam, known as Kashmir’s ‘mini Switzerland’, witnessed a mass killing of tourists by terrorists, who shot the victims in cold blood. The loss of 26 lives sent shockwaves across the world, raising questions on the safety of civilians in India-administered Jammu and Kashmir, where Pahalgam is located.

In an expression of solidarity with those affected by the horrifying incident, the Indian-Australian community gathered at Martin Place, a major business district described as the ‘civic heart’ of Sydney. A candlelight vigil was arranged by the Indians in Sydney and AISECS (Australian Indian Social and Educational Cultural Society).

Senator Dave Sharma, MP Warren Kirby, MLC Damien Tudehope, Cr Barbara Ward, Gurnam Singh, Harinder Kaur, Dr Abdul Noor, Moses Vedhamuthu, Mohd Shakeel Khan, Samantha Talakola, and the Consul General of India in Sydney, Dr. S. Janakiraman, took part in the vigil. Hundreds of individuals, besides community leaders, also participated.

Dr. Janakiraman, while condemning the brutal attack, assured the community that the Indian government was taking resolute and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice. “We grieve for the innocent lives lost. The Government of India is firm in its resolve to respond to these acts of terror with the strength of law, justice, and humanity. I thank the Indian-Australian community for standing so strongly with us in this time of mourning.”

Australia’s commitment to India was strengthened by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who personally conveyed condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his statement on X, Prime Minister Albanese said: “The horrific loss of life of innocent civilians is an act of senseless violence which has shocked the world. Those responsible must be held to account. Australia and India are great friends and we stand with India at this difficult time.”

Martin Place sent out the message that hate may wound, but it will never win.

Nadeem Ahmed, Founder of Indians in Sydney, said, “Today, we are not defined by our sorrow, but by our strength. Terror aims to break our spirit, but here, under the open sky of Sydney, we stand unbroken. United not just by heritage or nationality, but by the very core of our shared humanity. We mourn, we remember, and we resolve — to always stand on the side of peace.”

The City of Sydney and the New South Wales Police were appreciated for their unwavering support in facilitating the gathering at short notice. The event went off peacefully.

Gurnam Singh, Founder of AISECS, said, “It is moments like these that show the true soul of a community. We do not answer hatred with hatred. We answer with unity, with compassion, and with an even stronger commitment to each other as human beings. Our diversity is not our weakness; it is our greatest strength.” – Photo by freepik – editor@nrifocus.com