Another Target Killing: Tragic!

Another day, and another killing of an innocent, this time Sanjay Sharma from South Kashmir’s Pulwama, who was until a few days ago, toiling hard to make the ends meet, and feed his family by working as a bank security guard. He had no idea that he would be shot while walking through the market, that his blood would be spilt, that his family would be seen grieving over his lifeless body and that the entire neighbourhood, as well as all of J&K, would be in complete shock. By killing Sanjay and specifically going for members of the minority community, those responsible have not and will not gain anything. They must realise that their horrific actions only serve to fuel the flames, which is what they ultimately do, and that they are at a loss now, tomorrow, and for decades to come.

The loss of innocent lives in carnage is heartbreaking and painful. Every drop of blood spilt acts as a reminder of a life cut short. It is a daily reminder of the anguish, pain, and loss felt by those left behind. Every lost life and drop of blood serves as a reminder of the value of life and our common humanity. We are moved by people who have lost something, and we share their grief and desperation. What is going on around us is a continual reminder of obvious injustice and the dreadful repercussions of both violence and injustice.

There is little doubt that those who murdered Sanjay, as well as numerous others in J&K over the years, do not have a religion. They do not represent any religion at all, despite having names that reflect who they are. Under any circumstances, no faith condones the death of an innocent individual. All religions teach us compassion, respect for life, and love for one another. Killing an innocent person is a heinous crime that violates the fundamental precepts of our religions. It’s devastating to think that a life has been lost due to a senseless act of violence.

Everyone has the right to live in safety and security, and no one should be denied that right. A decent human being who worked valiantly to fulfil one of the highest obligations—feeding his family—till his last breath was lost in a moment of flash. The Kashmiri society as a whole bears the obligation of protecting the defenceless and ensuring that they can live their lives without fear of violence or harm.

Calling spade, a spade, is necessary; acting otherwise will no longer be effective because justice and peace must triumph. For the love of God, let us be touched by the blood of innocent victims and step up our efforts to ensure that all lives are cherished and treasured while also bringing those who have been harmed to justice. Never let us forget those who have passed away, and let us honour their memory by doing everything in our power to build a world free from injustice and violence.