Dombivli Observes Complete Shutdown to Mourn Victims of Pahalgam Terror Attack

Dombivli : A pall of grief descended over Dombivli on Thursday as the city observed a total bandh in mourning and protest following the tragic deaths of three of its residents in a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. The victims—Sanjay Lele (52), Atul Mone (44), and Hemant Joshi (43)—were part of an extended family vacationing in the valley when militants opened fire in the picturesque Baisaran area, killing 26 civilians, including several tourists.

The bandh, called by Dombivli MLA Ravindra Chavan and supported by political parties, social groups, and local business associations, saw shops, markets, and commercial establishments across the city shut in solidarity. Public transport services remained limited, while citizens refrained from regular activities to pay homage to the deceased.

Thousands of residents gathered at Bhagshala Ground on Wednesday evening to receive the mortal remains of the victims, in scenes charged with emotion and anguish. Slogans of “Pakistan Murdabad” echoed through the crowd as mourners expressed their anger and demanded strong action against terrorism.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited the grieving families to offer condolences and assured support from the state government. The attack has left Harshal Lele, the 20-year-old son of Sanjay Lele, injured with a bullet wound on his hand. He is currently recovering and under medical care.

Sanjay Lele was the brother-in-law of Rajesh Kadam, a Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) leader. Kadam and other party leaders rushed to Kashmir to assist in repatriating the bodies. Kalyan-Dombivli MP Dr. Shrikant Shinde oversaw coordination efforts, ensuring the timely return of the deceased to their hometown.

The community stands united in grief, with leaders including Thane Collector Ashok Shingare, MLA Rajesh More, and various local administrative officials remaining in close contact with the bereaved families. In a joint statement, they vowed to continue providing assistance and pursue justice for the victims.

The Dombivli bandh, though spontaneous and somber, served as a powerful expression of collective sorrow and outrage. As the city mourns its lost sons, calls for stringent counter-terrorism measures grow louder, echoing across Maharashtra and the nation.