New Delhi: Holding candles in their hands, more than 500 people, primarily mediapersons and Muslim intellectuals gathered in the capital Friday evening to voice their anguish over the Nov 26 terror attacks in Mumbai and to express solidarity with the victims on the one-month anniversary.

The march which began at Zakir Nagar near Jamia Nagar was organised by the Journalists' Association for People (JAP) and was attended by several members of the Muslim community residing in the area including many students and teachers of the Jamia Islamia University nearby. The large chunk of those present however was mediapersons from various news channels and newspapers.

"We covered reaction stories in the aftermath of the attack. We were equally connected to what happened in Mumbai, despite not having been there. We have helped organise this and are overwhelmed with the turnout which we feel will exceed 1,500 people," said Maz who works with India TV.

Nafisa Ali, a former model and actress was also present.

"I am ready," she said with a smile holding her candle "To march for peace."

A visibly agitated Naila, who works with Shikhar a non-profit organization working for woman rights, said: "What happened a month back has taken the entire nation by surprise. I am here to express my solidarity to the victims and their families. After what happened, people are opening their eyes, asking questions, we want to ensure that that does not end."

Her friend Afifa Khan, a teacher at Shikhar's computer centre said that what she dreaded the most in the aftermath was the possibility of a war: "Investigations have led to tension between India and Pakistan. Authorities must work out peaceful arrangements - An immediate war is no answer! That too will have consequences - many more lives will be lost."

The march culminated at Tikona Park in Okhla.

Over 170 people, including 26 foreigners, died in the Mumbai terror attacks.

 

Source : ians