Pahalgam Terror Attack: Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer took to his social media platform to urge people to act sensitively on the recent terrorist attack in the Valley that killed at least 26 people. He condemned the attack on tourists as “barbaric and heinous” and emphasised that now is not the time for memes. For context, Jaffer is well-known for posting light-hearted memes that are popular among his fans.

“To those asking why I haven’t posted any memes, this is not a time to make memes,” Jaffer wrote on X (formerly Twitter).  

He added, “I urge everyone to be sensitive, there are 28 families mourning. What happened in Pahalgam was barbaric and heinous. Cricket is just a game; human life is far more important.” 

Here’s how social media reacted to his post:

While some agreed with him, others criticised him for not explicitly mentioning that “Muslim terrorists” were responsible for the attack, with a few even going as far as suggesting he denounce his religion.

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“In complete agreement, sir,” posted an individual. 

Another commented, “No one is asking your memes! It’s all about condolences post!”

“Absolutely agree. Some moments demand empathy, not entertainment. Prayers for the victims and strength to their families. Humanity must always come before everything else,” said a third. 

A fourth shared, “Superb Wasim bhai! Proud of you! This is not a joke, and people need to understand the seriousness!”

“Respect for you has grown multi-fold, Wasim bhai. This should be the only priority of the nation at the moment. Not some league that comes every year,” expressed a fifth. 

One person, who claimed to be from Pakistan, agreed with Jaffer. “Fully supported your message from Pakistan, someone’s life is more important than memes.”

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Many even slammed him for remaining silent about the terror attack for so long.

“Well, who asks you to post memes? BTW, Nice way of posting late & getting saved. We appreciate your concern. Nice try, but no! And don’t urge everyone, urge your community to stop spreading terror,” said one social media user. 

Another asked, “You’re remembering it after three days?”

Other cricketers on Pahalgam terror attack

Many cricketers took to their social media accounts to post on the Pahalgam terror attack, including star cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. 

“The affected families must be going through an unimaginable ordeal – India and the world stand united with them at this dark hour, as we mourn the loss of lives and pray for justice,” Tendulkar wrote.

Kohli, on his Instagram Story, wrote, “Heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Praying for peace and strength to families of all those who lost their lives and justice to be served for their cruel act,” Kohli shared via a recent Instagram story.”

“Praying for the families of the deceased. Those responsible for this will pay. India will strike,” Lok Sabha MP and former cricketer Gautam Gambhir wrote on X. 

Cricket commentator and former cricketer Irfan Pathan wrote, “Every time an innocent life is lost, humanity loses. It’s heartbreaking to see and hear about what happened in Kashmir today. I was just there a couple of days ago — this pain feels too close.” 

Cricketer Dinesh Kaneria, who plays for Pakistan, wrote, “I commend Prime Minister Narendra Modi for choosing to speak in English during the rally, ensuring that the world hears his warning loud and clear. Hopefully, just like in Gaza, this marks the beginning of the end for terrorism in South Asia.”