Sports: Players and umpires participating in today’s Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI) will observe a solemn tribute, wearing black armbands to honor the lives lost in the recent terror attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad will host this poignant match. Prior to the first ball, a minute of silence will be held as a mark of respect for the victims. In a further gesture of mourning, the usual vibrant cheerleaders and celebratory fireworks will be absent from today’s game.
While the on-field action proceeds, off the field, extensive efforts are underway to bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice. The Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police have jointly launched a comprehensive search operation across the Baisran area of Pahalgam in Anantnag. Additionally, Delhi Police have been placed on high alert, instructed to maintain heightened vigilance at tourist hotspots and other significant locations within the capital.
The profound impact of the tragedy has resonated with prominent figures in the cricketing world. Indian Cricket Team stars Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya have publicly expressed their deep sorrow and offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families through their social media platforms.
The gravity of the situation has also prompted high-level government intervention. Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened an urgent security meeting with various agencies following the attack and personally visited Srinagar for a security review. He has affirmed the government’s unwavering resolve to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act will face severe consequences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, upon his return from a state visit to Saudi Arabia, immediately held a briefing at Palam Airport with key officials, including the External Affairs Minister, National Security Advisor, and Foreign Secretary, underscoring the seriousness with which the government is treating the incident. His decision to cut short his international trip reflects the national concern and the priority being given to addressing the aftermath of the terror attack.
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