Lagatar24 Desk
Pahalgam: Families of those killed in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack have urged India’s cricketers to withdraw from the upcoming Asia Cup match against Pakistan, calling the contest painful and insensitive. The massacre in Baisaran Valley claimed 26 lives, including two members of the Parmar family from Bhavnagar, and remains one of the darkest chapters of recent terror violence.
Families Say Match Insults Grief
Kiranben Parmar, who lost her husband Yatish and 17-year-old son Smit, said their wounds remain fresh. “The tears in our eyes have not dried, and yet they are playing this match. It is painful even to hear about it,” she told reporters, appealing to players to respect the memory of victims. Her younger son, Savan, also criticised the decision to proceed with the game, questioning why cricket ties with Pakistan persist despite Prime Minister Modi’s earlier stand against engagement after terror attacks.
Operation Sindoor and Public Outrage
The Pahalgam killings, carried out by four terrorists of The Resistance Front, were followed by retaliatory strikes under Operation Sindoor and strict diplomatic measures against Islamabad. Yet, the continuation of cricketing ties has stirred anger among bereaved families and citizens, who view the match as undermining the sacrifices of victims and soldiers. With emotions still raw, they say unity against terrorism should take precedence over sporting rivalries.
