Indian community members across the world staged large-scale protests, demanding justice for the 26 victims of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack.
Demonstrations took place in UK, Canada, Denmark, France, Finland, Germany, Spain, the US, and other countries. Protesters displayed placards, chanted anti-Pakistan slogans, and waved Indian flags, condemning the brutal killings of Hindu tourists in Jammu and Kashmir.
Rallies were held in cities such as London, Melbourne, Copenhagen, and Kathmandu, with voices of anger and solidarity echoing globally. The diaspora came together to honor the victims and call for justice.
In France, Switzerland, and Finland, community members gathered to pay tribute to the innocent lives lost and send a clear message against terrorism. In Frankfurt, over 300 people participated in a march from the Central Railway Station to Dom Romer, expressing solidarity with the victims' families and standing firm against terror.
In London, members of the Indian community and diaspora groups gathered outside the Pakistan High Commission for a protest titled “All Eyes on Pahalgam,” condemning the horrific terrorist attack. Waving Indian flags, banners, and placards with counter-terrorism messages, the protesters expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and demanded justice for the victims. They chanted slogans against terrorism and criticised Pakistan for allegedly harbouring and supporting terrorist groups responsible for such attacks.
A disturbing incident occurred when an official from the Pakistan High Commission was seen making a threatening throat-slitting gesture towards the protesters. The individual, believed to be Colonel Taimur Rahat, Pakistan's Army and Air Advisor, was caught on video holding a sketch of Captain Abhinandan, the Indian Air Force pilot captured by Pakistan six years ago.
The peaceful demonstration, which drew participants from diverse age groups and backgrounds, aimed to express solidarity with the victims and their families. The Friends of India Society International (FISI) UK organised the protest, calling for international action against terrorism. They urged the UK government to reassess its stance on Pakistan and to stand firmly with India in this moment of grief.
Organisers condemned the Pakistan High Commission for playing loud celebratory music during the protest, calling it a tone-deaf and disgraceful act that added insult to the already painful situation. “While the world mourns the victims, the embassy’s actions displayed a shocking lack of empathy,” the organisers stated.
Meanwhile, a counter-protest organised by Pakistani supporters outside the High Commission of India in London was overshadowed by the massive turnout of Indian community members. Despite only around 50 Pakistani protesters gathering, hundreds of Indian supporters rallied in front of the building, waving the Indian Tricolour and chanting slogans like "Bharat Mata Ki Jai," "Vande Mataram," and "Jai Shri Ram."
The Pakistani protesters, who raised slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and shouted “Pakistan Zindabad,” were vastly outnumbered. The protests, however, failed to gain much momentum, with one Pakistani journalist calling the event a "disaster."
In a show of unity, British Indian groups later held a candlelight vigil at Piccadilly Circus in remembrance of the victims. Similar “All Eyes on Pahalgam” protests and vigils were also organised by Indian diaspora groups across the UK, including in cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, Leicestershire and Belfast, to condemn Pakistan’s alleged role in supporting terrorism.
The Kashmiri Pandit Association of Europe, on behalf of Kashmiri Pandits across the UK and Europe, also strongly condemned the horrific terror attack stating, “This brutal assault—where over 28 innocent tourists were killed and many others injured—is yet another grim reminder of the continued targeted violence against Hindus in Kashmir.”
“While we acknowledge the widespread condemnation of this atrocity, for many in our community, it reopens old wounds. The events echo the coordinated attacks of January 1990, when cross-border Islamic militants and their sympathisers launched a campaign of targeted terror against the Hindu minority in the Kashmir Valley—culminating in the ethnic cleansing and forced exodus of the Kashmiri Pandit community”, they added.
UK, India vow closer cooperation
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, four days after the attack, to express his strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people. Describing it as a "heinous attack on Indian soil," Starmer extended his heartfelt condolences and affirmed the UK’s solidarity with India during this difficult time.
“PM Keir Starmer of UK called PM Narendra Modi and conveyed his sincere condolences on the innocent lives lost in the heinous terror attack on Indian soil. He strongly condemned the barbaric terror attack and expressed that UK stands with the people of India in this hour of tragedy,” posted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X.
A statement from 10 Downing Street echoed the sentiment, saying, “The Prime Minister was horrified by the devastating terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, which saw the tragic loss of 26 innocent lives. He expressed his deep condolences on behalf of the British people to all those affected, their loved ones, and the people of India.” Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact.
Meanwhile, the incident was also raised in the UK Parliament. Conservative MP Bob Blackman, Chair of the Backbench Business Committee, called attention to the attack and urged UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy to issue a formal statement.
"On Tuesday, we saw the systematic murder of Hindu pilgrims in Pahalgam in India. The sad reality is that the terrorist group thought to be responsible for this, Lashkar-e-Taiba, is a Pakistani organisation that deliberately targets innocent people in Jammu and Kashmir," Blackman told the House of Commons.
He stressed the importance of standing with India, adding, "We must give our reassurance and support to the Government of India in ensuring that they apprehend these terrorists and those responsible for supporting them are also brought to justice."
Tan Dhesi, Member of Parliament for Slough, addressed the parliament condemning the “callous cowardly terrorist attack on innocent tourists in Jammu and Kashmir.”
“Hope perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice and heartfelt condolences to all affected, particularly victims’ families who are in my prayers”, he said.
Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a “barbaric” act that claimed the lives of innocent civilians. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Sunak expressed his sorrow and solidarity with India, stating, “The barbaric attack in Pahalgam has stolen the lives of newlyweds, children, and families simply seeking joy. Our hearts break for them. To those mourning – know that the UK stands with you in sorrow and solidarity. Terror will never win. We grieve with India.”
A solemn prayer meet was held at Gandhi Hall in the High Commission of India in London on Thursday (24) to honour the victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The event, led by Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami, echoed with chants of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" as members of the Indian diaspora and British parliamentarians gathered in solidarity.
The event followed a parliamentary discussion earlier that day and featured remarks from cross-party UK MPs and diaspora leaders. Speakers included Labour Indians chair Lord Krish Raval, vice-chair and Welsh Indian MP Kanishka Narayan, and Baroness Sandy Verma. Lord Raval said, “Every right-thinking person must condemn this attack and all others like it,” appreciating the inclusive message of unity delivered by the High Commissioner.
Also in attendance were Lord Rami Ranger, Indian Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs L Murugan, and Maharashtra’s Minister of Social Justice Sanjay Shirsat. Expressing grief, Shirsat said, “Our sorrow is beyond words. But our strength lies in our unity, and today we stand here as one global Indian family.”
Lisa Nandy, the UK’s Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, addressing a gathering during a reception ahead of her visit to Mumbai for the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), observed a moment of silence in honour of the victims.
Addressing those in audience, Nandy said, “The loss of innocent lives in such a brutal and senseless manner is a tragedy that transcends borders. On behalf of the UK government, I extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families, and offer our full support in their pursuit of justice and peace.”
She reaffirmed the strength of UK-India ties, stating, “The relationship between India and the UK has always been strong and deep. At times like this, friends matter. As the Prime Minister has already said, we stand united with you in grief.”
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy spoke separately with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. In his conversation with Jaishankar, Lammy was briefed about India's "zero tolerance" stance on terrorism and the cross-border links to the attack.
On the other hand, Dar, spoke to Lammy about Pakistan's commitment to promoting peace and stability while safeguarding its national interests. According to the Pakistan Foreign Office, Dar also raised concerns over India's "unilateral" actions, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, which Pakistan considers a "clear violation" of international obligations.
The UK Foreign Secretary emphasised the need for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the issues discussed, with both countries urged to work toward a diplomatic solution.
World leaders show solidarity with India
Global leaders reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to offer condolences and reaffirm support for India in its fight against terrorism following a recent attack. Among those expressing solidarity were Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
Italian PM Giorgia Meloni strongly condemned the attack, offering condolences to the victims and expressing Italy’s full support in the fight against terrorism. PM Modi thanked her for Italy’s clear stance, and both agreed to strengthen collaboration on international platforms to enhance counter-terrorism efforts.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack as “heinous” and conveyed his solidarity with India. He stated that such acts of barbarism were unacceptable and expressed support for India’s determination to bring those responsible to justice.
On the other hand, US President Donald Trump, rather than taking a firm stance, downplayed the global concern over the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on his way to Rome, Trump remarked, “I am very close to India and very close to Pakistan, as you know. And they’ve had that fight in Kashmir for 1,000 years, probably longer. And it was a bad one yesterday, a very bad one. Over 30 people.”
When asked if he intended to mediate or intervene in the crisis, Trump responded, “There have been tensions on that border for 1,500 years. So, you know, it's the same as it’s always been. But they’ll figure it out one way or the other. I’m sure… I know both leaders. There’s great tension between Pakistan and India, but there always has been.”
China called for restraint from both India and Pakistan, emphasising that their peaceful coexistence is essential for regional peace, stability, and development.
What’s next as tensions escalate?
India has strongly criticised Pakistan at the United Nations, drawing attention to a controversial "open confession" by Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif regarding his country's role in supporting and training terrorists.
During her address at the UN, India's Deputy Permanent Representative, Yojna Patel, condemned Pakistan for exploiting the international platform to spread propaganda and make baseless accusations against India. Patel specifically referenced Asif's televised admission of Pakistan's history of supporting, training, and funding terrorist organisations. She stated, "It is unfortunate that one particular delegation has chosen to misuse and undermine this forum. The world has heard Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, openly confess to Pakistan’s support of terrorism in a recent television interview."
Patel continued, “This open confession comes as no surprise and exposes Pakistan as a rogue state, fuelling global terrorism and destabilising the region. The world can no longer turn a blind eye." She also emphasised India's position as a victim of cross-border terrorism, particularly pointing out the recent Pahalgam attack, which caused the highest civilian casualties since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Patel expressed gratitude for the international community's strong support in the wake of the attack, which claimed 26 lives.
“India deeply appreciates the unequivocal support and solidarity extended by global leaders following the Pahalgam terrorist attack. This solidarity reflects the international community’s zero tolerance for terrorism," Patel said. She reaffirmed India’s long-standing fight against cross-border terrorism, stating that the perpetrators, organisers, financiers, and sponsors of terrorism must be held accountable.
This statement followed comments by Khawaja Asif on Sky News, where he admitted that Pakistan harbours and funds terror groups, adding that the country had been "doing the West's dirty work for decades." Asif described the terror groups as a "single organisation" with different faces, asserting that they had been used as proxies by the USA in the past.
Asif also warned that Pakistan would respond "in kind" to any attack by India and called on US President Donald Trump to "bring sanity to the situation."
Meanwhile, tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) continue to escalate, with Pakistan once again violating the ceasefire. Pakistani forces fired unprovoked across areas in Kupwara, Baramulla, and Akhnoor on the night of April 28-29, to which the Indian Army responded in a "measured and effective" manner.
In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a crucial meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and military leaders, reaffirming India's resolve to decisively confront terrorism. Modi emphasised that the Armed Forces have "complete operational freedom" to determine the nature and timing of India’s response.
In the week following the brutal attack, India has launched a series of decisive actions aimed at isolating Pakistan diplomatically, tightening internal security, and asserting its resolve on the global stage. India wasted no time in taking diplomatic measures. It expelled Pakistani diplomats and recalled its envoy from Islamabad, signalling a clear breakdown in bilateral engagement. Visa services for Pakistani nationals were also suspended, and all existing visas were revoked. In a landmark move, India halted cooperation on the Indus Waters Treaty—a key water-sharing agreement that had remained intact since 1960, even during previous conflicts.
India’s military posture also shifted rapidly. The Indian Navy conducted missile tests, and the Air Force stepped up its surveillance and patrols in border areas. The main land borders with Pakistan were temporarily closed, underscoring India’s readiness to escalate defensive measures if required.
Simultaneously, a massive internal security operation was launched in Jammu and Kashmir. Nearly 2,000 individuals were detained, and properties belonging to suspected militants were demolished, sending a strong signal of zero tolerance toward homegrown radicalisation and terrorism.
Recognising the role of information warfare, India took action in the digital domain as well. It blocked 16 Pakistani YouTube channels and banned the social media account of Pakistan’s Defence Minister, citing the dissemination of misleading and inflammatory content. These measures form part of a broader effort to combat misinformation and extremist propaganda.
The Indian government has lodged a strong protest with the BBC over its coverage of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, objecting to the broadcaster's use of the term “militant attack” in a news article. The article, titled “Pakistan suspends visas for Indians after deadly Kashmir attack”, was published following the deadly assault that claimed 26 lives.
In a formal communication to Jackie Martin, Head of BBC India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed its displeasure at the terminology used, which the government believes downplays the severity and nature of the attack. The MEA’s External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division conveyed “India’s strong sentiments” to the BBC and confirmed that it would closely monitor the broadcaster’s reporting going forward.
The BBC’s article stated: “Pakistan has responded with tit-for-tat measures against India as tensions soared following a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists.”
India’s response follows similar backlash in the United States, where a Senate panel sharply criticised The New York Times for using the term “militants” to describe the perpetrators of the attack. The US House Foreign Affairs Committee also took issue with the terminology, warning that such language risks trivialising acts of terrorism by referring to the attackers as “militants” and “gunmen.”
Anil Bhanot, HCUK’s managing trustee, opines that the attack came soon after Pakistan’s military chief General Asim Munir declared openly in a speech that Hindus are different from them, and he went onto labour the point on freeing the Kashmiri Muslims from India; surely, there seems to be connection here. “A terrorist outfit in Kashmir linked to Pakistan has already claimed responsibility for the attack. Yet the Guardian always with an anti-India stand and now the Daily Mail refers to these terrorists as militants only, the BBC perhaps with an improvement now has elevated to the term ‘Gunmen’ – well, their reporters should talk to the victims’ widows and orphans…”
Bhanot goes on to say that ironically, the Muslims in Kashmir are living nicely with Hindus and even in this massacre. “A Muslim Syed Adil Hussain Shah died whilst trying to save the Hindu victims. The difference in Islamism and Islam can be seen from this example alone.”
Victims of the attack
- Sushil Nathyal from Indore
- Syed Adil Hussain Shah from Hapatnard Tehsil, Pahalgam
- Hemant Suhas Joshi from Mumbai
- Vinay Narwal from Karnal, Haryana
- Atul Shrikant Moni from Dombli, West Maharashtra
- Neeraj Udhawani from Uttarakhand
- Bitan Adhikari from Kolkata
- Sudeep Neupane from Batwali Ropandi, Nepal
- Shubham Dwivedi from Kanpur, UP
- Prashant Kumar Satpathi from Malashwar, Odesa
- Manish Ranjan from Bihar
- N Ramachandra from Kochi, Kerala
- Sanjay Lakshman Lali from Thane, Mumbai
- Dinesh Agarwal from Chandigarh
- Sameer Guhar from Kolkata
- Dileep Dasali from Panvel, Mumbai
- J Sachandra Moli from Pandoranguram, Vishakhapatnam
- Madhusudan Somisetty from Bangalore
- Santosh Jaghda from Pune, Maharashtra
- Manju Nath Rao from Karnataka
- Kastuba Ganvotay from Pune, Maharashtra
- Bharat Bhushan from Sunder Nagar, Bengaluru
- Sumit Parmar from Bhavnagar, Gujarat
- Yatesh Parmar from Bhavnagar, Gujarat
- Tagehalying from Zero, Arunachal Pradesh
- Shaileshbhai Kalathia from Surat. Gujarat
