Pahalgam, April 22, 2025 — A devastating terrorist attack in the scenic Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has left at least 26 people dead and 17 others injured. The brutal assault, which occurred around 2:50 PM IST, targeted unarmed tourists in one of the region’s most visited and serene locations, sending shockwaves across India and the international community.
Attack Details
Eyewitnesses reported that four to six heavily armed militants, disguised in military-style uniforms, emerged from nearby forest areas and opened indiscriminate fire on tourists enjoying the picturesque landscape. Baisaran, a meadow known for its lush greenery and pony trails, is only accessible by foot or horse—making the attack particularly chilling for its calculated targeting of civilians in an open, vulnerable setting.
Among the deceased are:
-
24 Indian tourists from various states,
-
Two locals from Jammu and Kashmir,
-
Two foreign nationals, one from Nepal and another from the UAE.
At least 17 others sustained injuries, many in critical condition. Rapid emergency response teams airlifted the injured to Srinagar hospitals for treatment.
Claim of Responsibility & Investigation
A previously unknown group identifying itself as “Kashmir Resistance” claimed responsibility for the massacre. In a chilling statement, the group cited their opposition to what they termed the “forced demographic changes” in Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
Indian intelligence agencies, however, have pointed to the involvement of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives. Authorities released sketches of four suspected militants:
-
Asif Fauji
-
Suleman Shah
-
Abu Talha
-
One unnamed individual, all believed to be associated with LeT.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), along with local police, has initiated a full-scale investigation. A massive manhunt is underway, with the army and CRPF personnel deployed across Pahalgam and adjoining forest belts.
Government and Political Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, cut his trip short and returned to Delhi for an emergency security meeting. “The perpetrators of this heinous act will not be spared,” Modi declared in a televised address.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the site today, met with victims’ families, and vowed strict action. “This is not just an attack on innocent people, but an attack on peace and the soul of Kashmir,” Shah stated.
Security has been heightened throughout Jammu and Kashmir, and public gatherings in Pahalgam have been restricted temporarily.
Global Condemnation
The international community strongly condemned the attack:
-
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called the attack “a despicable act of terrorism.”
-
US President Donald Trump expressed condolences, reaffirming support for India in combating terrorism.
-
Governments of France, Germany, Israel, and the UAE also issued strong statements of solidarity.
Impact on Tourism
The assault has severely dented the region’s ongoing tourism revival efforts. Tour operators reported widespread cancellations. In response, Air India and IndiGo have introduced special evacuation flights from Srinagar to major cities.
Victims Remembered
Among the victims were:
-
Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, a young Indian Navy officer from Karnal.
-
Bitan Adhikary, a TCS techie based in Florida, who was vacationing with his wife and son.
Memorials have begun appearing across social media as people express grief and demand justice.
Conclusion
The Pahalgam attack is the deadliest assault on civilians in Kashmir in recent years. While the region has been on a path of recovery and increased tourism post-Article 370, this incident underscores persistent security challenges. As India mourns the lives lost, the government has assured the public that justice will be swift and uncompromising.
Read more: Top Business Magazine
