![People participating in a candle light march in solidarity with the martyrs in Awantipora on Thursday. People participating in a candle light march in solidarity with the martyrs in Awantipora on Thursday.](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/page7-11-3.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Sept 14: In a poignant display of unity and grief, the local populace organized candlelight marches and rallies in parts of Kashmir to express their unwavering solidarity with the security forces personnel who attained martyrdom in a terror attack the other day.
The candlelight marches and peaceful demonstration of solidarity were held in various locations of Kupwara, Handwara, Lolab and Karnah subdivisions. These marches commenced at various locations across District Kupwara. The protestors proceeded through towns and villages attracting a large and diverse crowd of people.
The atmosphere was sombre and the silence was profound as participants, holding flickering candles, walked in unison, paying their respects to the fallen heroes. Many held placards with messages of condolences, patriotism, and appreciation for the Indian Army and J&K police.
The candlelight marches in Karnah sub-division concluded right at LOC in Teetwal where community leaders, veterans and representatives of the civil society addressed the gathering. They spoke eloquently about the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers.
Candlelight march was also held at Kulgam in memory of the supreme sacrifice of the security officers at Kokernag. The candles were lit in the main market, clock tower, Kulgam by the people.
The march witnessed massive participation of people holding candles to remember the sacrifices of these bravehearts in line of duty and condemned the terror act unequivocally.
Awantipora town also became the epicentre of this collective outpouring of emotion, with a solemn candlelight march commencing at the Town Hall MC Awantipora and concluding at the Clock Tower.
Participants spanning all age groups came together, clutching candles and heartfelt posters, to pay their respects to the valiant men who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The streets of Awantipora bore witness not only to the flickering candlelight but also to the palpable anger and profound sadness that has gripped the community in the wake of this tragedy.
The public’s resolute support for the security forces was unmistakable throughout the march, as they mourned the loss and fervently called for a resolute response against those responsible for this cowardly act.
This march transcended boundaries, drawing notable figures including the President of MC Awantipora, BDC Awantipora, Municipality Councillors, Sarpanch’s, Chairman of the Town Welfare Committee, representatives from Trade Unions, the Sumo Association, Bar Association, and esteemed senior citizens. Their presence underscored the gravity of this moment and the unwavering determination of the community to stand together in the face of adversity.
Similar candlelight marches and rallies in support of the fallen personnel resonated throughout Pampore and other parts of the Kashmir Valley, highlighting the collective resolve of the region to stand strong in these challenging times.