Family Says “No Help Can Compensate Loss, But Gesture Brings Dignity & Support”
Irfan Yattoo
Srinagar : In a significant gesture a year after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde on Tuesday fulfilled his promise by handing over a newly constructed house to the family of local victim Adil Shah in Anantnag district.
Adil Shah, a ponywallah from Hapatnar village, was the lone local among 26 people killed when terrorists struck Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist destination near Pahalgam, on April 22 last year.
The house was formally handed over to the family at a function organised by the Shiv Sena in Adil’s native village on the eve of the first anniversary of the attack. Shinde joined the event virtually, while Maharashtra ministers Sanjay Shirsat and Yogesh Kadam were present on the ground.
Adil’s father, Syed Haider Shah, expressed gratitude for the support extended by Shinde, saying the promise made in the aftermath of the tragedy had been honoured.
“We are very grateful to Shinde ji. After the incident, he sent his aides with financial help and promised to build a house. Today, that promise has been fulfilled,” he said.
He added that the outreach from the Maharashtra deputy chief minister continued even after the initial assistance. “Shinde Sahab called us to Srinagar, and his team is still in touch. One of his aides told us, ‘We are like your sons… I am also your Adil.’ That gives us strength,” he said.
“No matter what is given, the person will not come back. There is no peace,” he said.
Recalling his son’s actions during the attack, Shah said Adil’s sacrifice stood as a powerful example of humanity above all divisions.
“He did not care for his own life. He gave his life to save others. He did not see Hindu, Muslim, or Sikh. He showed that humanity comes first,” he said.
Describing Adil as the backbone of the family, Shah said all responsibilities rested on him. “He looked after everyone, parents, and brothers. But this was Allah’s will,” he said, adding that memories of his son remain vivid even after a year.
“This time of the year, he would be working in Pahalgam. Today, he is buried. We remember him every moment,” he said.
He also remembered Adil’s cheerful nature. “He had a great sense of humour. He was always laughing. You wouldn’t feel he was the elder brother,” he said.
The father said that while many present at the spot fled to save their lives during the attack, his son chose to stay back and help others. “There were many labourers there, but everyone ran. Adil gave his life for others,” he said.
The construction of the house and continued engagement with the family mark a rare instance of long-term support to victims of terror, coming at a time when the region is preparing to mark the first anniversary of one of its deadliest recent attacks targeting civilians and tourists.
The family has also received assistance from the Jammu and Kashmir administration, including a government job for Adil’s wife and support for his younger brother. However, Shah said no amount of aid can make up for the loss.
