Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday attended the funeral of Syed Adil Hussain Shah, the only local and only Muslim among the 26 people killed in the horrific Pahalgam terrorist attack on Tuesday. Hussain, a pony rider by profession, died while trying to save tourists from the gunfire at the popular Baisaran meadow, often referred to as “Mini Switzerland.”
Standing beside grieving family members at Hussain’s funeral in Hapatnar, Anantnag district, Abdullah offered his deepest condolences and pledged full government support to the bereaved family.
“A poor local labourer has died in this cowardly attack. He was brave. He died trying to protect tourists. I’ve heard he even tried to snatch a terrorist’s gun before he was shot,” Omar Abdullah told reporters after the funeral.
Visited Pahalgam today to offer Fatiha for brave heart Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who was shot dead while trying to snatch a weapon from one of the terrorists in a courageous attempt to protect the tourists he had ferried on horseback from the parking area to Baisaran meadow. Met… pic.twitter.com/VrxR4gJ3tO
— Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) April 23, 2025
Pony Rider Died Protecting Tourists in Terror Ambush
According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary police reports, Syed Adil Hussain Shah showed exceptional courage when terrorists disguised in camouflage and kurta-pyjamas emerged from the dense pine forests and opened fire with AK-47s. As panic spread, Hussain reportedly tried to lead tourists to safety and confronted the attackers, sustaining fatal gunshot wounds in the process.
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His selfless act of bravery has earned him widespread admiration and mourning across the region.
“He was not just a pony rider—he was a protector. His courage in the face of death speaks volumes about the spirit of Kashmir,” said a relative during the funeral procession.
Omar Abdullah Slams Terrorists, Offers Solidarity with Victims
Calling the Pahalgam massacre one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Kashmir in recent years, the J&K Chief Minister strongly condemned the violence and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to combat terrorism and safeguard civilians.
“We condemn this attack in the strongest terms. The perpetrators are enemies of peace and humanity,” Abdullah said.
He also addressed the exodus of tourists from the valley following the attack, urging visitors not to lose faith in the hospitality and warmth of the local population.
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“The pain of seeing guests flee Kashmir is heartbreaking. But let the world also know—we have heroes like Adil who stood between death and the innocent,” he added.
TRF Claims Responsibility for Massacre
The Resistance Front (TRF), an affiliate of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the attack. As per intelligence reports, 5–6 armed militants launched the assault on unarmed tourists at Baisaran, a lush green destination in Pahalgam visited by thousands every year.
The attackers allegedly asked for the religion of tourists before opening fire indiscriminately. Among the deceased are civilians from West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, including families and honeymooners.
A Community in Mourning
The funeral of Syed Adil Hussain saw participation from villagers, local leaders, and officials, many of whom hailed him as a “martyr of humanity.” Emotions ran high as chants of “Shaheed Adil Amar Rahe” (Long live martyr Adil) echoed in the quiet valley.
ALSO READ: 5 Pakistan nationals among 7 terrorists behind Pahalgam terror attack, initial probe says
Hussain’s family, devastated by the loss, has received assurance from the state government regarding financial and emotional support. Locals have also demanded a gallantry award in his name and permanent employment for a family member.
A Symbol of Kashmir’s Spirit
In a conflict-scarred region often seen through the lens of violence, Syed Adil Hussain’s story is emerging as a rare and powerful narrative of Kashmiri courage and compassion. His actions have not only saved lives but also reminded the nation of the resilience and humanity within the valley.
