Following the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made up his mind to cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia. He was originally supposed to return to India on Wednesday night, but now he will leave Saudi Arabia tonight and is likely to reach India early Wednesday morning.
Terror Attack in Pahalgam
On April 22, 2025, at least 26 people, including tourists and locals, were killed in a gun attack on a resort in Baisaran meadow close to Pahalgam. The attackers, said to be four in number, opened fire at close range. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy outfit of the outlawed Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has taken responsibility for the attack. More than three dozen people were also injured in the attack, many of them seriously. The attack was a major escalation of the conflict in the region since tourists have generally not been targeted despite continued tensions.
Response of PM Modi
Prime Minister Modi denounced the attack, assuring that the perpetrators would be held accountable. He offered his sympathies to the victims’ families and reaffirmed India’s dedication to fighting terrorism.
Following the attack, PM Modi decided to forego the official dinner being hosted by Saudi Arabia in Jeddah. He was set to meet Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammad bin Salman during his visit. Government sources confirmed that the Prime Minister has decided to cut short his trip and return immediately to India.
The move to shorten the visit reflects the seriousness of the situation in Kashmir and the Prime Minister’s resolve to tackle national security issues. The government has assured that every possible step is being taken to assist the victims and enhance security in the area.
