Rourkela, Apr 27: In a heartfelt display of solidarity and remembrance, the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela organized a candle march on Saturday evening, to honor the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack. The event brought together students, faculty members, and staff, uniting the NIT Rourkela community in an expression of grief and compassion.

The gathering commenced at 6:45 PM at the Student Activity Centre (SAC), where attendees observed a two-minute silence to pay homage to the lives lost in the tragic incident. Following this, NIT Rourkela’s Director, Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, addressed the gathering. In his moving speech, he expressed the anguish felt by the entire community, stating, "We stand united in this hour of grief, extending our heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this senseless act of violence."

The Registrar, Prof. Rohan Dhiman, and Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Niranjan Panda, shared their heartfelt messages, emphasizing the importance of standing against such acts of terror. Participants then lit candles and walked in a solemn procession, reflecting the deep sense of unity and compassion that resonated through the event.

Concluding the program, Prof. Rajeev Panda, President of the Student Activity Centre, thanked everyone who participated and contributed to this collective expression of solidarity. The candle march underscored the commitment of the NIT Rourkela community to uphold peace and support the affected families.

At least 26 people were killed and several injured when terrorists opened fire at a meadow near Pahalgam town in south Kashmir's Anantnag district on Tuesday afternoon.