New Delhi: In a video circulating on Instagram, Syed Areeb Bukhari, the grandson of the Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Armed Forces for their “firm action against terrorism”.
The seven-year-old, who represents the 15th generation of the Jama Masjid family in New Delhi, is seen seated in front of the mosque. In the video, Areeb addresses the Prime Minister, saying, “Respected Uncle Modi, you have taken a strong step against terrorism—and you have shown it in action. You are our hero.”
Areeb also says that the heightened tension between India and Pakistan had left him “disturbed” and “scared”. However, he now feels calm and reassured.
“Now I can focus on my studies again. Thank you to the Government of India and our brave Jawans. Jai Hind,” he adds.
The child’s video message was posted a day after India and Pakistan agreed to halt military action. The decision followed days of escalating conflict during which several border regions—including Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan—faced projectiles from Pakistan. Areas in J&K, including Poonch, Rajouri, Uri, and Kupwara, also witnessed heavy shelling. The flare-up resulted in the deaths of civilians and military personnel across multiple locations.
(Edited by Radifah Kabir)