The echoes of grief still resonate across Kashmir, one day after Pahalgam’s brutal terror attack. Tuesday afternoon saw the terrorists attack a group of travellers in Baisaran Valley and kill at least 26 of them, among whom were two foreign nationals and injured 11 others.
The attack has shook the region out of its feet and suspended regular life. Schools shut down, roads became empty, and political leaders and locals united in a collective display of grief and protest.
#BREAKING | Kashmir valley shut in support and solidarity
▪️Shops, fuel pumps, private schools shut#ITVideo #Pahalgam #PahalgamTerrorAttack #PahalgamAttack | @PoojaShali @ashraf_wani @gauravcsawant pic.twitter.com/ZGTXqz6DJa— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) April 23, 2025
Tragic Attack in the Heart of Kashmir
In the afternoon of April 22, 2025, terrorists fired on a group of tourists in Baisaran Valley, close to Pahalgam. The armed assailants fired indiscriminately, killing and injuring multiple victims, including children and families.
The majority of the victims were tourists from various regions of India, in addition to two foreign nationals. The attack has left a devastation trail, especially since Pahalgam is a peaceful and popular tourist resort. The brutality has stunned the local population and posed serious questions about security in the area.
Unison Display of Mourning and Protest
Since the attack, Kashmir’s populace has come together in mourning and outrage. Politicians from all parties, local citizens, and civil society organizations have condemned the brutality vehemently. In an effort to show solidarity with the victims, most people have demanded a ‘Kashmir Bandh.’ Schools have been closed, and the usually crowded streets are empty.
People have remained indoors, thinking about the tragedy and grieving the loss of innocent lives. The attack has brought attention to a shared feeling of loss and a collective intent to resist the violence.
Political and Social Reactions
Kashmiri political leaders have also responded swiftly, denouncing the act of terrorism. They have been outraged and demanded speedy justice. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has vowed to take the perpetrators to court, and security personnel have increased their presence in the region.
Although tensions are still running high, the tragedy has also united people politically, with politicians uniting to condemn the attack. In spite of persistent political issues, the people of Kashmir have united in the struggle for peace and justice.
The Ripple Effect on Tourism and Daily Life
The Pahalgam terror attack has left a deep mark on the tourism sector in Kashmir. Pahalgam as a tourist destination is no longer popular as visitors question their safety. The attack has also exerted enormous pressure on local livelihoods and businesses, particularly those that rely on tourism.
Moreover, the roads are empty, with daily life seriously affected. A sense of fear and uncertainty has seized the valley, with people finding it hard to lead their daily lives. This attack has served to highlight how vulnerable Kashmir’s tourism industry is and how vulnerable everyday life can be in the presence of such violence.
Way to Peace
After this attack, Kashmir has a watershed moment to prepare for. The area is currently at a juncture between further destabilization and possibly a path toward healing. In the short term, the first priority must be to address the security issues, restore trust, and make certain that such violence does not become a hallmark of the area.
Kashmir’s leadership, security establishment, and civil society need to work together in order to establish peace and stability. The assault has revealed vulnerabilities, but also the strength of the Kashmiri people, who remain firm even in the midst of adversity.
