28 Tourists Killed in Pahalgam Terror Attack
In a devastating incident on April 22, 2025, suspected militants launched a brutal attack on tourists in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of at least 28 individuals and injuring over 36 others. This Pahalgam terror attack marks one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in the region in recent years.
Attack Details and Immediate Response
The assailants, emerging from dense forests, opened fire on unsuspecting tourists, many of whom were Indian nationals from states like Karnataka, Odisha, and Gujarat, along with two foreign nationals. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers, dressed in uniforms, asked for names before indiscriminately shooting at close range. The remote location of Baisaran Valley, accessible only by foot or pony, posed challenges for immediate rescue operations. Local shopkeepers and guides played a crucial role in transporting the injured to medical facilities using ponies.
Political Reactions and Security Measures
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, cutting short his trip to Saudi Arabia to address the situation. Home Minister Amit Shah vowed severe repercussions for the perpetrators. The incident coincided with the visit of U.S. President JD Vance, who expressed condolences and solidarity with India. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, criticized the government’s previous assertions of normalcy in the region.
Background and Implications
The militant group “Kashmir Resistance” claimed responsibility, citing opposition to India’s settlement policies post the revocation of the region’s semi-autonomous status in 2019. This attack underscores the fragile security situation in Kashmir and raises concerns about the safety of tourists in the area. Authorities have launched a manhunt for the attackers and increased security measures across the region.
The Baisaran Valley attack serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing tensions in Kashmir and the need for vigilant security protocols to protect civilians and tourists alike.
