Kulgam/Shopian, March 22: A deep silence hung over Nadimarg village as people gathered with moist eyes and heavy hearts to mark the 23rd anniversary of the Nadimarg Massacre—a tragedy that still echoes in every corner of the Valley.
Families, survivors, and members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, many arriving from Jammu, stood together in remembrance of the 24 innocent lives lost—11 men, 11 women, and two children whose dreams were silenced on a cold night in 2003.
As prayers were whispered and candles lit, memories of the horrific night resurfaced. On March 23, 2003, armed militants, believed to be linked with Lashkar-e-Taiba, entered the quiet village disguised in uniform.
Door by door, families were pulled out of their homes. Fear gripped the village as cries filled the air. The victims were gathered together helpless, terrified and then, in an act of unimaginable brutality, gunned down at close range.
That night did not just take 24 lives it shattered families, erased generations, and left wounds that time has failed to heal.
What made the gathering deeply moving was the presence of local residents, especially from the Muslim community, who stood shoulder to shoulder with the grieving families.
Many could be seen wiping tears as they remembered the victims, condemning the massacre as a stain on humanity. “This was never Kashmir,” some said quietly—reminding that the land has always stood for love, coexistence, and brotherhood.
Their voices carried regret, empathy, and a sincere desire to heal the past.
Locals extended heartfelt support for the return of displaced Kashmiri Pandit families, expressing a willingness to rebuild the bonds that once defined their shared lives. The Pandit community, in turn, acknowledged this solidarity, saying such gestures keep alive the hope of reconciliation.
The two-day commemorative programme began today, with the main prayers to be held tomorrow. Authorities in Shopian and Kulgam have ensured security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the event.
As the sun set over Nadimarg, candles flickered in the fading light each flame carrying a story, a memory, a life lost too soon.
Twenty-three years have passed, but for many, time stopped that night.
The Nadimarg massacre is not just history—it is a pain that still breathes, a silence that still speaks, and a reminder that humanity must never fail again.
Locals and members of the Kashmiri Pandit community also hailed the efforts of the district administrations of Shopian and Kulgam for ensuring foolproof security arrangements during the commemorative programme. They appreciated the coordinated measures taken to facilitate a peaceful and dignified observance of the anniversary, stating that such support not only ensures safety but also builds confidence among participants, especially those who travelled from outside the Valley to pay homage to the victims.
