Indian Overseas Congress USA Hosts “Stand in Solidarity with India” Gathering at Times Square Following Pahalgam Terror Attack
Los Angeles/Apr 29, 2025
NRIpress.club/ Ramesh/A.Gary Singh
New York, NY – The Indian Overseas Congress USA (IOC USA) held a solemn and powerful
gathering at Times Square on April 27, 2025, to express solidarity with the victims of the brutal
terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which occurred on April 22,
tragically claimed the lives of 26 innocent people, including many tourists.
The event, titled “Stand in Solidarity with India,” united IOC USA officials, members of the
Indian diaspora, and community leaders to condemn the heinous act of terrorism and call for
urgent, decisive action to strengthen India’s security and national unity.
Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of IOC USA, delivered a passionate address, sharply
criticizing the Indian government's response.
"Where is Prime Minister Modi’s '56-inch chest' and angry eyes now?" Mr. Gilzian asked. "Instead of visiting the grieving families in Kashmir, he chose to prioritize election campaigning
in Bihar. National security must come before political gains."
He demanded immediate action to ensure justice for the victims and enhance India’s security
infrastructure.
Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General of IOC USA, reaffirmed the organization’s support for the
Government of India in delivering an appropriate response. He urged the government to fully
restore security in Kashmir, care for the victims' families, and stand firmly with all Indians
committed to justice and dignity.
Other IOC USA leaders shared powerful messages of solidarity and action.
Pradeep Samala, Working President (North East Zone), emphasized the urgent need for
accountability over the major security lapse in Pahalgam. John Joseph, Vice Chairman,
affirmed support for the victims and stressed that terrorism will never defeat India's unity.
Baldev Randhawa, Vice Chairman, called for national security to be prioritized with immediate
reforms. Peter Kothari, New Jersey Chapter President, urged against communalizing the tragedy
and called for economic support to revive Kashmir's tourism. Ram Gadula, Telangana Chapter
Chairman, highlighted the nation's collective grief and the need for stronger protections for
tourists and residents. Imran Pasha, New York Chapter President, quoted “In Islam, it is taught
that taking the life of one innocent person is as if killing all of humanity, and saving one life is as
if saving all of humanity.” Joshua Jayasingh, Treasurer, warned of the attack's impact on India's
global standing and pressed for tougher measures against cross-border terrorism. Sophia
Sharma, General Secretary, emphasized unity and collective action against violence. Minhaj
Khan, Secretary, strongly condemned the violence as an affront to humanity, demanding swift
justice. Jaswinder S Kang, Secretary, mourned the loss of innocent lives and called for
immediate steps to ensure the safety of every citizen, especially in sensitive regions. Our unity is
our strength. Leela Merat, Senior Officer, honored the victims and called for renewed national
commitment to security. Muhammed Mujahid Murtuza, General Secretary, urged leaders to
respond with courage, compassion, and decisive action to defend the nation.
The Indian Overseas Congress USA strongly called for a transparent investigation into the
security and intelligence failures that led to the Pahalgam tragedy. It urged Prime Minister
Narendra Modi to convene an all-party meeting to address the national security challenges. The
organization also emphasized the need for stronger security measures for the upcoming
Amarnath Yatra and broader protections for tourists across Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally,
IOC USA demanded immediate steps to prevent communal polarization, recognition of local
heroes, protection for Kashmiri residents across India, and concrete actions to combat terrorism
and radicalization at every level.
The event featured a moving candlelight vigil and a moment of silence in honor of the victims.
Attendees held placards reading "Indian Americans Stand Against Terrorism," "India Against
Terrorism," and "Justice for Pahalgam."
The “Stand in Solidarity with India” gathering concluded with a pledge from IOC USA to
continue advocating for justice, security, and national unity. The organization reaffirmed its
commitment to working closely with Indian authorities, global partners, and the broader diaspora
to build a stronger, safer, and more inclusive India.
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