Delhi Lawyers Forum Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack

New Delhi, 27 April, 2025 – The Delhi Lawyers Forum (DLF) has strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists. The attack has triggered widespread grief and outrage across India.

In an emergency meeting held on 26 April, the DLF expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, opening the session with a moment of prayer and a tribute to the late Pope Francis, remembered as a beacon of peace and compassion.

Presiding over the meeting, Adv. Fr. Ravi Sagar SJ said, “We stand in prayerful support of those who lost their loved ones. Their grief is ours. We commend the ordinary people of Kashmir who, in their moment of trial, rose in compassion to help the victims.”

Treasurer Adv. Fr. Jaison added, “We categorically denounce the brutal killings. No ideology can justify the shedding of innocent blood. It is heartening to see the nation stand together, refusing to be divided by hatred. We must continue to proclaim a resounding ‘No’ to all forms of violence.”

Adv. Fr. Joson Tharakan stressed the sanctity of human dignity, warning that terrorism offers only suffering and that religion must never be twisted into a weapon of division.

Adv. Fr. Siby declared, “No faith, no cause, can justify murder. As we bow our heads in sorrow, we also lift our voices for justice. The perpetrators must be brought to account.”

Expressing deep sorrow, Adv. Rani Punnasseril HCM said, “This unspeakable act of violence is beyond human understanding. As a nation, we must heal the wounds caused by such brutality with justice, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to peace and dignity.”

Secretary Adv. Sr. Bindu emphasised the need to protect India's secular fabric, calling on citizens to resist efforts to divide people along religious lines.

Adv. Fr. Bibin John conveyed solidarity with the victims and their families, urging for swift and fair justice.

Concluding the meeting, the DLF appealed to the government to strengthen safety, foster peace among communities, and reject terrorism in all forms.

The DLF, comprising Catholic priests and religious advocates in Delhi and the NCR region, remains committed to promoting justice, safeguarding dignity, and giving voice to the marginalised.

By Sr. Rani Punnasseril