LETTER | The Global Human Rights Federation Malaysia (GHRFM) strongly and unequivocally condemns the barbaric terrorist attack that occurred on April 22, 2025, in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Twenty-six innocent lives were brutally taken, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. Over 20 others were seriously injured in the orchestrated assault that specifically targeted unarmed Hindu pilgrims and tourists.

This cowardly act, reportedly claimed by The Resistance Front - a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba - marks one of the deadliest civilian attacks in Kashmir in recent memory. The attackers deliberately selected their victims based on religious identity, revealing the cruel and divisive intentions behind this act of terror.

We express our deepest condolences and solidarity with the families of the victims. The pain they endure is unimaginable, and no cause or ideology can justify the shedding of innocent blood.

GHRFM stands firm in asserting that terrorism is the ultimate violation of human rights. Such targeted violence tears at the fabric of humanity, destroying communities and instilling fear among peaceful citizens.

The use of religion and ideology to justify murder and destruction is not only unacceptable - it is a crime against humanity.

We call out the invisible powers and state-sponsored entities who embolden, finance, and arm these terrorist groups while hiding behind political rhetoric. Their silence is complicity; their support is a betrayal of global human values. These shadow forces must be held accountable by the international community for their sustained role in fuelling instability in Kashmir.

“Terrorism anywhere is a threat to humanity everywhere. No ideology, no grievance, and no religion can ever justify the murder of innocents. We stand united in our call for justice, dignity, and an end to these inhumane acts, “ said GHRFM president S Shashi Kumar.

The people of Kashmir deserve peace, dignity, and a life free from fear. We urge all governments, human rights bodies, and international institutions to act with resolve, not only in condemning terrorism, but in dismantling the networks that sustain it.

Terrorism has no place in any society. The world must rise as one to protect innocent lives, uphold human dignity, and ensure that bullets never silence the voices of victims.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.