Srinagar, March 23:
Cash, gold jewellery and copper utensils were among items donated by locals in parts of Kashmir for relief efforts aimed at people affected by the ongoing conflict in Iran.
The donations were collected a day after Eid celebrations, as youth in several areas of the Valley carried out door-to-door campaigns to gather aid for those impacted by the war in West Asia.
The initiative highlights a wave of grassroots humanitarian mobilization in Kashmir, where people have come forward to express solidarity with civilians affected by the conflict in Iran.
A cleric told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the campaign saw participation from all sections of society, including men, women and children, with contributions ranging from cash to valuable household items and even livestock.
Women, in particular, played a significant role in the drive, donating gold ornaments, copper utensils and other belongings as part of the relief effort, they said. Families in some areas also contributed livestock, reflecting the scale of participation and the depth of engagement.
Children were also involved, donating their savings and pocket money, he added, describing the response as “widespread and emotionally driven”.
“There is huge devastation caused by this illegal war imposed on Iran by the Zionist regime of Israel and its supporters. The least the civilized world can do is send aid to the suffering people of Iran,” said Irshad Ahmad, a resident of Zadibal, who was part of the donation campaign.
Sources said the collected items are expected to be routed through official relief channels, including the Iranian Embassy, to ensure proper distribution among affected populations.
Expressing gratitude, the Iranian Embassy acknowledged the contributions in a post on X, thanking the people of Kashmir for their support during the crisis.
“With hearts full of gratitude, we sincerely thank the kind people of Kashmir for standing with the people of Iran through their humanitarian support and heartfelt solidarity; this kindness will never be forgotten,” the embassy said.
In another message, it added: “We will never forget your kindness and humanity. Thank you, India.”
The developments come amid ongoing hostilities in West Asia, which have led to civilian casualties and displacement in parts of Iran, prompting calls for humanitarian assistance from various quarters.
Kashmir has a history of community-driven relief efforts, both within and beyond the region, particularly during times of crisis. The latest initiative reflects continuing public engagement with international humanitarian causes, especially in areas with cultural or religious affinity to affected populations.
Sources said further collection drives may continue in the coming days, depending on the response and coordination with authorized agencies handling relief distribution. [KNT]