Pahalgam Terror Attack: Dombivli Observes Spontaneous Bandh In Protest, Mourns Loss Of Local Victims

Thane: Commercial establishments remained shut and vehicular movement came to a standstill in Dombivli town on Thursday, as residents observed a spontaneous bandh in protest against the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Among the 26 victims of the brutal attack on Tuesday were three cousins from Dombivli – Sanjay Lele, 50, Hemant Joshi, 45, and Atul Mone, 43.

The usually busy streets of Dombivli wore a deserted look, with most auto-rickshaws, buses, and private vehicles staying off the roads. A majority of shops and other commercial establishments also remained closed as a mark of mourning and solidarity.

Small groups of people were seen at the corners of some streets and roads in the town, with conversations revolving around the Pahalgam tragedy and the loss of lives, including three persons from Dombivli who were their families' breadwinners.

Earlier, various shops, offices and local markets started closing from Wednesday afternoon as a mark of protest against the terror attack and to express solidarity with families of the victims.

The bandh, supported by all major political parties and civil groups, was observed voluntarily by the public.

"Those behind the terror attack should be given the harshest punishment which serves as a deterrent," said a local resident. The bandh was so far peaceful, an official from Thane police control room said.