The Kashmir Valley came to a near standstill on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, marking the first shutdown in 35 years in response to a terrorist attack. The shutdown, called to protest the killing of tourists in Pahalgam, saw support from a wide cross-section of Kashmiri society, officials said.
Security was tightened throughout the region, especially around tourist hotspots. Most commercial establishments, including shops and fuel stations, were closed in Srinagar. Only outlets providing essential goods remained open.
Public transport services were limited, though private vehicles continued to operate. While private schools across the valley shut their doors, government schools remained open. The bandh’s impact extended to other district headquarters as well, according to officials.
Kashmiris protesting terror attack
Peaceful demonstrations were held in several parts of the valley, with residents condemning the violence and urging an end to the killing of innocents. The shutdown was backed by major political entities including the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples’ Conference, and Apni Party.
Religious bodies and civil groups also rallied behind the call. The Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU), an alliance of various religious organisations led by Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, appealed for a valley-wide shutdown in solidarity with the victims. “The Islamic fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir, through MMU, stands with the bereaved families and urges the people to observe a peaceful protest,” said Mirwaiz.
Prominent trade and tourism groups including the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries and the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation also called for businesses to remain closed.
School closure in solidarity with victims
The Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) declared the closure of all private schools across the region on April 23 to show solidarity with the victims and their families. The University of Kashmir also announced the postponement of all exams scheduled for the day.
In response to the attack, security arrangements were significantly reinforced across the valley. Officials confirmed increased deployment of personnel at key locations, tourist attractions, and all entry and exit points of urban and rural districts.
Multiple checkpoints were established where authorities conducted vehicle checks and frisked commuters. Meanwhile, a large-scale search operation was launched in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam the site of the deadly attack in a bid to track down the perpetrators. Additional forces were stationed in the area to ensure safety and support the ongoing investigation.