By IANS
Srinagar : The news of former Pakistan prime minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination Thursday evening sent shock waves in Jammu and Kashmir with everyone condemning the act of terrorism.
As the tragic news spread in the summer capital city Srinagar, people rushed home to switch on their television sets for an update on the tragedy.
“I am shocked to hear this sad news. She was a brave lady who worked hard for her country. I hope Pakistan and the people there are able to bear the shock,” said Farooq Abdullah, former chief minister and patron of the regional party, the National Conference.
“It is a tragic incident. An act of terrorism aimed to weaken Pakistan,” said Syed Ali Geelani, the hardline chairman of the breakaway Hurriyat group.
“We are in a state of shock. It is an act aimed at starting a civil war in Pakistan. We condemn the barbaric act and express solidarity with the bereaved family and the people of Pakistan,” said Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, chairman of the moderate All party Hurriyat Conference group.
“It is a shocking act of terrorism. I hope and pray the government of Pakistan deals with terrorism effectively and firmly,” said Professor Abdul Gani Bhat, former chairman and now spokesperson of the moderate Hurriyat.
The moderate Hurriyat has called for prayers for Bhutto in the Valley Friday.
Politicians apart, the common Kashmiri received the news of the assassination with absolute shock.
“Her death is a tragedy not only for Pakistan, but for Kashmir as well. Her death is definitely aimed at weakening Pakistan.
“We need a strong Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir problem,” said Sajjad Ahmad, 24, a university student.
“It was first her father, then two of her brothers and now Benazir herself. The family is finished and because the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) was essentially a family oriented party, the future of the PPP as such is uncertain now,” said Prof Muzaffar, who teaches in a local college here.
Some locals are now even expressing doubts whether elections in Pakistan can be held at all after Bhutto’s murder.
“How do you go on with elections in a situation like this? I pray for Pakistan’s stability,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, 39, a businessman here.