Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang pays tribute to Pahalgam terror attack victims at Shradhanjali Sabha

A Shradhanjali Sabha was held today in the heart of Gangtok to pay homage to the victims of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed 28 lives on April 22. Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, along with Madam Krishna Rai and other dignitaries, joined citizens in expressing solidarity and mourning the tragic loss of lives.

The ceremony brought together hundreds of people who offered prayers for the departed and conveyed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The atmosphere was one of deep sorrow and collective reflection as the Sikkimese community stood united against the senseless violence.

Following the memorial service, Chief Minister Tamang led a candlelight rally through MG Marg, Gangtok. Hundreds participated in the peaceful march, their candles lighting up the streets in a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives. The rally symbolized not only grief but also the resilience and unity of the people of Sikkim.

Earlier, on April 23, Chief Minister Tamang had expressed his condolences through a heartfelt Facebook post, condemning the attack and calling for peace and unity. "Such heinous acts must be unequivocally condemned," he wrote, offering prayers for the deceased and strength to the affected families.

The Pahalgam terror attack, which unfolded in the scenic Baisaran Valley, targeted a group of Hindu tourists, resulting in 26 deaths and over 20 injuries. The incident has been described as one of the most deadly terrorist attacks in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

Initially, The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack, but the group retracted its statement four days later. The incident has sharply increased tensions between India and Pakistan, with India taking significant diplomatic measures including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, the expulsion of Pakistani diplomats, and the sealing of borders. Pakistan, in turn, has suspended the Simla Agreement and imposed trade restrictions.

The tragedy in Pahalgam has reverberated across the nation, with citizens and leaders alike calling for unity, resilience, and a resolute stand against terrorism.