In one of the deadliest terror strikes to hit Jammu and Kashmir in recent years, 26 tourists were killed and several others injured on Tuesday after terrorists opened indiscriminate fire at visitors in Baisaran Valley, a scenic meadow located above the popular hill station of Pahalgam. The attack has sent shockwaves across the country and prompted an immediate high-level security response from the Centre.
According to initial reports, heavily armed terrorists dressed in camouflage ambushed a group of tourists riding horseback in the high-altitude Baisaran meadows, a site reachable only by foot or pony. Military helicopters were swiftly deployed to airlift the injured to nearby hospitals, as security forces launched a large-scale manhunt across the region.
PM Modi, Amit Shah Lead National Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the attack. Calling it a “cowardly act,” PM Modi asserted that India’s resolve to eliminate terrorism is unshakable and has only grown stronger.
In an urgent move, the Prime Minister instructed Union Home Minister Amit Shah to personally visit Srinagar and oversee the ongoing security operation. Shah convened a high-priority meeting in Delhi, attended by Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Deka, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, CRPF Director General Gyanendra Pratap Singh, and J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat, along with Army officials via video conferencing.
Shah also spoke to J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, promising the full support of the central government.
Security Forces Launch Anti-Terror Operation
Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha vowed swift justice, declaring, “The perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack will have to pay a heavy price for their heinous act.” A full-scale anti-terror operation has been launched, with special focus on neutralizing the terrorists responsible.
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Sinha also confirmed that medical teams were working round the clock, and injured tourists were being shifted to GMC Anantnag and other hospitals for treatment.
Political Leaders Unite in Condemnation
The terror attack has sparked an outpouring of grief and condemnation from across the political spectrum. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the attack as an “abomination,” posting on X, “The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough.”
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti also denounced the violence, calling it “deeply concerning” and urging for a “thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh labeled the attack an “act of cowardice and highly reprehensible,” emphasizing the need for a robust counter-terror strategy.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge mourned the loss of innocent lives, stating the attack was “a blot on humanity.”
BJP’s Jammu & Kashmir unit chief Ravinder Raina condemned the attack, stating: “These cowardly terrorists targeted unarmed innocent tourists who had come to see the beauty of Kashmir.”
Karnataka Victim Identified
Among the deceased is a realtor from Shivamogga, Karnataka, who was reportedly shot in front of his wife and son. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called an emergency meeting to gather updates on the tragic incident and extend support to the bereaved family.
The attack comes at a particularly sensitive time as the Amarnath Yatra registration is ongoing. The 38-day pilgrimage, beginning July 3, is expected to attract thousands of devotees via the Pahalgam and Baltal routes — both now under enhanced security review.
Earlier this month, Home Minister Amit Shah had instructed J&K security forces to ensure “zero tolerance” for infiltration and directed for complete eradication of terror networks in both Kashmir and the Jammu division.
Tourism Industry Shaken
Known for its pristine lakes, forests, and meadows, Pahalgam has long been a jewel of Kashmir’s tourism economy. This unprecedented attack has sent shockwaves through the industry, which had only recently recovered from years of political unrest and COVID-related downturns.
As rescue efforts continue and security forces hunt for the attackers, the tragedy has cast a dark shadow over Kashmir’s tourist season and reignited calls for comprehensive action against terror networks operating in the region.
