By R. Paul Dhillon
SURREY – A heartfelt memorial vigil to pay tribute to the 132 children and 9 adult victims of Peshawar school massacre was held Wednesday, Dec 17th at Surrey’s Holland Park.
Members of the Pakistani-Canadian and Indo-Canadian community attended to express their deepest sympathy and support for the families of those killed in the massacre by Pakistani Taliban terrorists.
People were asked to gather in Holland Park through social media and other means so that the untied South Asian community can condemn this cowardly act and send a clear message to the terrorists and religious extremists that we all stand together against all evils.
Aside from the Holland park event, the management of Laxmi Narayan Mandir also strongly denounces the dastardly act of the Taliban killing 141 innocent students and staff members of an Army school in Peshawar, Pakistan.
“To kill innocent people in the name of religion is outrageous and the Mandir offers prayers to the bereaved families. Children are the future of any nation and no civilized nation can accept this killing of innocent people. We demand strong action from the Pakistan Government to curb the activities of the Taliban,” the Mandir said in a press release.
A special prayer was also held today at the Temple to remember the innocent victims.
“We, all Pakistanis, stand united in the fight against terrorism. No terrorist will find a safe place in Pakistan, inshallah. A terrorist cannot be a Muslim. Muslims, especially Pakistanis, are the victims of terrorism. Pakistanis are the ones who suffered the most loss in the war on terrorism. Since 2001, more than 35000 civilians and over 5000 soldiers have been killed in this war on terror in Pakistan. May God protect Pakistan and all other peace loving people across the globe. Amin, ” said former Surrey School Trustee Sikandar Hayat.
“Killing innocent people not serving purpose at all but create valley of sorrow and destruction. What do you expect from those people who are merciless towards children. Their existence on earth is just like pebbles. Kids are hungry for our care, cuddle and protection. Under no circumstances we should jeopardized their safety, ” said Surrey resident Hanif A. Patel.
