The recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam has been described as one of the most brutal assaults on tourists in the region in recent times. At least 26 people lost their lives, including two foreign nationals from the UAE and Nepal, and two locals. Several others suffered injuries. The Resistance Front (TRF), a group linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the strike.
Gunmen Open Fire at Popular Tourist Spot
On Tuesday afternoon, terrorists opened fire near a well-known tourist area close to Pahalgam town. Most of the victims were vacationers from other Indian states. Officials said this was the deadliest terror incident in Kashmir since the Pulwama attack in 2019.
According to intelligence inputs, 8 to 10 terrorists were likely involved in the Pahalgam attack. Out of them, around 5 to 7 may have infiltrated from Pakistan.
PM Modi Cuts Short Saudi Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to Delhi early Wednesday after ending his trip to Saudi Arabia ahead of schedule. Immediately upon arrival at the airport, he held a briefing with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
The Prime Minister also posted on X: “I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.”
A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) was scheduled for 11 a.m. today to review the situation.
Amit Shah Holds High-Level Meeting in Srinagar
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reached Srinagar on Tuesday evening. He immediately chaired a high-level meeting with senior officials to assess the security situation. Sources revealed that a major review and restructuring of the current security protocols is likely to take place following this deadly attack.
Terror Route and Planning Suspected
Officials suspect that the terrorists might have crossed into the Valley from Kishtwar in Jammu and travelled through Kokernag in South Kashmir to reach Baisaran, the area near Pahalgam where the shooting occurred.
Widespread Outrage and Shutdown Call
As news of the attack spread across the country, there was a wave of anger and sorrow. Various political and civil organisations in Jammu and Kashmir called for a bandh (shutdown) on Wednesday to protest against the killings. The Valley, known for its beauty, has rarely seen attacks targeting tourists, which makes this incident even more shocking.
