The wave of condemnation following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, continued to resonate across Hyderabad as Muslim worshippers staged a peaceful protest during Friday congregational prayers. At the historic Mecca Masjid, worshippers were seen wearing black armbands on April 25, 2025, to express their outrage over the assault believed to have been carried out by the terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The symbolic protest was in response to a public call by All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader and Member of Parliament for Hyderabad, Asaduddin Owaisi, who had urged Muslims to wear black armbands during Juma prayers as a sign of solidarity with the victims and a strong statement against terrorism.
Taking to social media platform X on Friday morning, Owaisi posted, “Juma Namaz, please do wear black band around your arms to protest the terrorist act perpetrated by LeT in Pahalgam against innocent Indians.” His message drew widespread support, with many adherents taking part in the coordinated protest.
After the prayers, participants gathered outside the mosque and took to the streets in a non-violent demonstration, chanting patriotic slogans such as “Pakistan Murdabad” and “Hindustan Zindabad.” The peaceful march underlined a collective stand against violence and terrorism, with community members emphasizing unity and national solidarity.
The demonstrations are part of a broader wave of civil responses to the deadly attack in Pahalgam, which has sparked anger and mourning across India. Citizens of all faiths have condemned the act, calling for unity in the fight against extremism.
Further amplifying the public outcry, Telangana State Governor A. Revanth Reddy is expected to lead a candlelight procession on Friday evening, starting from People’s Plaza and concluding at the Indira Gandhi Statue. The vigil is aimed at honouring the victims and promoting communal harmony in the face of terror.
A day earlier, on Thursday, interfaith solidarity was also observed as both Hindus and Muslims came together at the Hockey Grounds in Masab Tank for a joint protest against the attack. Participants held placards, lit candles, and reiterated the need for peace, security, and national unity in confronting terrorism.
The events in Hyderabad reflect a growing consensus across communities against the forces of violence and division, with religious leaders and citizens alike uniting under a common cause—justice for the victims and an unrelenting stand against terror in all its forms.
