Pahalgam attack aftermath: Kashmiri students threatened, businesses hit as tensions rise

Srinagar: After the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, which killed 26 tourists, Kashmiri students across India have been facing threats, harassment, and violence.

Several incidents have been reported in different states where students were attacked, forced out of hostels, called terrorists, and warned to leave immediately or face consequences.

At Arni University in Himachal Pradesh, hostel doors were broken by outsiders who abused Kashmiri students. In Dehradun, Uttarakhand, a Hindu Raksha Dal video went viral, warning Kashmiris to leave or be killed, forcing many students to pack up and flee.

In Derabassi, Punjab, attackers entered a hostel after midnight, tore students’ clothes, and injured a student with a sharp weapon. In Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, some landlords asked Kashmiri tenants to vacate their homes. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has called these attacks a targeted hate campaign.

Its convenor, Nasir Khuehami, said this is a planned move to harass Kashmiris and is not just a reaction to the terror attack. He appealed to state governments and national leaders to act quickly and ensure the safety of Kashmiri students. Students have been advised to stay indoors, avoid political arguments, and not post anything sensitive on social media. Police in Dehradun have increased patrolling and removed over two dozen social media posts that promoted violence.

The situation between India and Pakistan has also worsened after the attack. India has accused Pakistan of sheltering terrorists behind the attack and suspended several agreements, including the Indus Waters Treaty. Visa services have been cancelled, diplomatic ties have been downgraded, and cross-border trade has been stopped. Pakistan has also retaliated by closing its airspace, halting trade with India, and cutting diplomatic contacts. Both countries are in a tense standoff, and peace talks have completely broken down.

The tension is badly hitting Kashmiri businesses, especially in tourism and trade. Tour bookings to Kashmir are being cancelled, handicraft orders have been put on hold, and many goods are stuck due to the shutdown of trade routes. According to local businessmen, they are suffering huge losses and fear that the situation could get worse in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, security forces have launched large-scale operations against terrorists in Kashmir.

Army and police units have stepped up search operations across southern districts like Anantnag, Shopian, and Pulwama. The army has increased its presence in sensitive areas to prevent further attacks. Officials say they are working to dismantle the network behind the Pahalgam attack and prevent any future strikes.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti have condemned both the terror attack and the violence against Kashmiri students. They have urged the government of India to ensure that innocent Kashmiris are not punished for the acts of a few. Political leaders and student groups are also appealing to citizens to maintain peace and not fall for hate propaganda being spread online. The situation remains tense but under close watch. Both sides, however, remain on high alert.