KCC&I Stands in Unity, Seeks Protection for Kashmiris Amid National Crisis
Srinagar 26 April 2025: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I), led by President Javid Ahmad Tenga, met Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha Ji at Raj Bhawan on Saturday, expressing the collective grief and condemnation from Kashmir’s business community over the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists and a local horseman.
Mourning a Tragedy That Shook Kashmir’s Soul
The KCC&I delegation, including Junior Vice President Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, Secretary General Faiz Bakshi, and Joint Secretary General Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, conveyed to the Lieutenant Governor that the heinous attack has deeply wounded Kashmir’s soul, leaving every citizen devastated and bereaved.
President Javid Ahmad Tenga stressed that this moment is not about business losses—it is about human losses. The pain of every innocent life lost transcends economic considerations, striking at the heart of Kashmir’s society and shared humanity.
A Pledge of Solidarity with Victims’ Families
During the meeting, the KCCI informed the Lieutenant Governor about their decision to personally visit the bereaved families of Pahalgam victims. Seeking the LG’s support in facilitating this humanitarian outreach, the Lieutenant Governor assured his assistance at the appropriate time.
This initiative is not just about condolences—it is about standing with the grieving families, offering moral support, and ensuring justice prevails.
Concerns Over Harassment of Kashmiris Nationwide
The delegation also voiced deep concerns over reports of harassment, intimidation, and threats faced by Kashmiri students, businesspersons, and residents living outside Jammu and Kashmir following the attack.
The KCC&I urged the Lieutenant Governor to intervene with the central government and various state administrations to ensure no Kashmiri faces discrimination or hostility beyond the Valley.
In response, LG Shri Manoj Sinha Ji informed the delegation that the Union Home Ministry has already directed all states and union territories to ensure the safety of Kashmiri students and businesspersons across India. His reassurance offered hope for immediate protective measures and action against hate-driven narratives that threaten Kashmir’s people.
The Impact on Tourism & Business Stability
Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha Ji acknowledged that the Pahalgam incident was a direct attack on J&K’s economy, targeting the revival of Kashmir’s tourism sector after years of hardship. He emphasized that the government and business stakeholders have worked tirelessly to restore peace and economic prosperity, and this tragedy must not derail progress.
KCCI and tourism leaders pledged to continue efforts to rebuild confidence in Kashmir, ensuring that travelers feel safe and welcomed in the region.
Pressing Concerns Over Private Hajj Quotas
The delegation also raised critical concerns over the 80% reduction in private Hajj quotas nationwide, which has severely impacted local private Hajj operators and left intending pilgrims uncertain about their future.
KCCI sought Lieutenant Governor’s intervention with the Ministry of Minority Affairs, requesting urgent action to address: ✔ Restoration of private Hajj quotas for fairness in pilgrimage accessibility. ✔ Resolution of refund issues for payments already transferred to Saudi counterparts.
The LG assured KCCI that he would personally escalate the matter to the Minister of Minority Affairs, bringing much-needed clarity and resolution for affected operators and pilgrims.
A Commitment to Peace & Future Prosperity
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry reiterated its dedication to peace, progress, and development, pledging to support all constructive efforts that foster stability and economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir.
KCCI also extended its full cooperation in ensuring the success of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, reaffirming Kashmir’s commitment to hospitality and religious harmony.
