Gujarat Sees Widespread Protests And Bandhs Following Pahalgam Terror Attack: Markets Shut, Citizens Demand Justice

Ahmedabad: In the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians including three from Gujarat, a wave of grief, anger, and protest has swept across the state. Citizens, business communities, and organizations are uniting in solidarity, demanding justice for the victims and stringent action against terrorism.

In Sanand, a complete bandh was observed today following a call by the local traders’ association. The shutdown received widespread support, with all small and large businesses remaining closed. Educational institutions also voluntarily participated, expressing their solidarity. A special condolence meeting was organized by the group to pay tribute to the victims, drawing a large turnout of traders and local residents.

Similarly, in Ambaji, a prominent pilgrimage site, traders declared a full bandh in protest against the Pahalgam attack. Markets in Ambaji, Gabbar, and Koteshwar remained entirely shut. Traders demanded harsh punishment for the perpetrators and called for the restoration of peace in the country. However, to ensure the convenience of pilgrims, the Ambaji Temple Trust kept the Ambika Bhojanalaya, community kitchen, operational.

Expressions of anger were also visible on the streets of Surat. Activists from various Hindu organizations raised slogans of “Pakistan Murdabad” (Down with Pakistan). In a symbolic protest, a large sticker of the Pakistani flag was placed on the road for people and vehicles to trample over, demonstrating widespread public outrage.

Vadodara witnessed a near-complete shutdown in key commercial areas such as Char Darwaja, Mangal Bazaar, Vasan Bazaar, and surrounding localities. Traders voluntarily kept their shops closed and organized public gatherings where slogans against Pakistan were raised. In Mangal Bazaar, traders displayed photographs of the deceased victims and paid heartfelt tributes.

Across Gujarat, from cities to small towns, the unified message was clear, citizens are standing together in sorrow and outrage, demanding strict justice and emphasizing the urgent need for lasting peace and security in the nation.