Synopsis
On April 23, the Karnataka BJP organized a candlelight vigil in Bengaluru to condemn the terrorist assault on tourists in Kashmir's Pahalgam. The event was led by R. Ashoka, who emphasized the need for unity against terrorism and highlighted the positive changes in the region since the abrogation of Article 370.Key Takeaways
- R. Ashoka led the candlelight protest in Bengaluru.
- The attack targeted tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir.
- Ashoka emphasized unity against terrorism.
- Highlighting development post-Article 370 abrogation.
- Warning against illegal immigration in Karnataka.
Bengaluru, April 23 (NationPress) In response to the terrorist attack targeting tourists in Kashmir’s Pahalgam, a candlelight vigil took place on Wednesday outside the BJP State Office, Jagannath Bhavan, in Bengaluru.
The event was orchestrated by the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, R. Ashoka. During a media interaction, Ashoka expressed, “We denounce this atrocity. Following the abrogation of Article 370, the Prime Minister fostered peace and promoted trade. I traveled to Jammu and Kashmir two years ago - it was thriving.”
“The majority Muslim community there shared that they previously faced challenges even for basic sustenance, but now they are earning around Rs 10,000 daily through various trades, such as boating. A terror group from Pakistan has brutally killed over 20 tourists. The entire nation stands united with them,” Ashoka further stated.
He also remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched development and infrastructure projects worth billions in the area.
“Unable to bear this advancement, terrorists from Pakistan targeted tourists to convey a false narrative that Kashmir is not tranquil,” Ashoka asserted.
He noted that local Muslim business owners were unharmed at the site, adding this serves as a cautionary tale for Karnataka.
“Illegal immigrants are settling in the state in large numbers. The terrorists’ aim is not the nation, but specifically Hindus. It’s crucial to recognize that Hindus are their targets — we must comprehend this. The central government has responded decisively. We have one of the mightiest armies globally,” he stated.
BJP leaders and activists lit candles and displayed posters honoring the victims of the terror attack. They showcased signs that read:
“Before pulling the trigger, they won’t inquire about your caste, party, language, or state. They will only ask one question — are you a Hindu?”
The leaders also donned black badges in protest against the incident.
BJP MP P.C. Mohan, MLC C.T. Ravi, MLA Vedavyas Kamath, Bengaluru North District President S. Harish, Central District President Saptagiri Gowda, former State Secretary Jagadeesh Hiremani, State Spokesperson S. Prakash, along with various MLAs and MLCs from Bengaluru, members of the BJP Mahila Morcha, party leaders, and supporters were present.
The BJP Bengaluru South District also held a silent tribute to honor those who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
Notable participants included RSS Joint General Secretary N. Tippeswamy, Bengaluru South District President C.K. Ramamurthy, Basavanagudi MLA Ravi Subramanya, BJP State Spokesperson Ashwath Narayan, along with former BBMP members and party workers.
