Bengaluru, 24 April 

Prominent Muslim scholars and leaders from the state have strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag district of South Kashmir on 22 April, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. The ulema expressed deep sorrow, called the violence ' un-Islamic and inhuman,' and demanded exemplary punishment for the perpetrators.

Moulana Maqsood Imran Rashadi, Imam of Jamia Masjid, Bengaluru, said, 'Killing innocent people in the name of religion is not only against Islam but a crime against humanity. Such acts defile the teachings of our faith and must be rejected outright.'

President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Karnataka, Dr Saad Belgami, added that no cause, political or ideological, can justify this bloodshed. The attackers are enemies of Islam and enemies of peace.

Moulana Syed Shabbir Hussain Nadvi of Naasih Foundation appealing for peace and unity demanded the government to bring the perpetrators to swift and exemplary justice. 

In solidarity with the victims, Imams across the country will deliver anti-terror sermons during Friday prayers and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.