Johannesburg, South Africa — The recent terrorist attack in Kashmir, which claimed at least 26 lives and left many more injured, has drawn sharp condemnation from the Hindu Dharma Association of SA (Hindasa) Seva Foundation. The foundation expressed concern about the impact of the violence on tourism, a critical sector for the region’s economy.
On Tuesday, assailants targeted civilians in Baisaran, a popular spot in Jammu and Kashmir, according to Hindasa Seva Foundation’s secretary, Pradeep Ramlall. The South African government, along with other international bodies, denounced the attacks, emphasizing the threat posed to innocent lives and peace efforts in the region.
Ramlall pointed out that the assault not only disrupts daily life but also casts a shadow over the burgeoning tourism industry in Kashmir, which had seen an uptick following the region’s redesignation as a union territory after the repeal of Article 370. He alarmed that such brutal acts could deter tourists, potentially undermining the trust and confidence that have been building over recent years.
“The people of Kashmir rely significantly on tourism. It’s their mainstay, and undermining this sector could cripple the local economy,” Ramlall mentioned during a discussion about the socio-economic implications of terrorism. He also voiced optimism that the Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would escalate measures to safeguard the region and its people.
Additionally, Ramlall alluded to the broader geopolitical tensions, suggesting that militants based in Pakistan might be trying to destabilize the region to compromise India’s economic success. “India has climbed to a major global stature, outpacing Pakistan in economic measures and global influence, which might be seen as a threatening by its neighbors,” he explained.
In a poignant solidarity message to India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, Ramlall conveyed the deep sympathies of South Africa’s Girmitya community. “We, the people of South Africa, unequivocally condemn this violent act that has not only taken innocent lives but also shaken the conscience of the world,” the letter read.
He continued, stressing the need for global cooperation against the scourge of terrorism. “Terrorism is a grave threat to humanity, impairing peace and mutual respect among nations. We stand ready to support international efforts that aim to foster peace, justice, and security.”
The turmoil in Kashmir is a palpable reminder of the pervasive threat of terrorism and highlights the indispensable role of international solidarity and cooperative security measures. As Kashmir strives toward recovery and safety, the global community’s role becomes ever crucial in supporting regional stability. This tragic event underscores the challenges that lie ahead in the path to lasting peace and the importance of resilience and unity in the face of terror.