In a tragic incident on April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), resulted in the death of one tourist and injuries to at least twelve others. The attack occurred in the scenic Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist spot known for its lush meadows and accessible only by foot or pony. Eyewitness accounts describe a group of unidentified gunmen opening fire on tourists from close range, leading to chaos and panic among visitors.
The deceased has been identified as Manjunath from Shivamogga, Karnataka. Reports indicate that the attack happened around 2:30 PM, with gunshots echoing across the valley as tourists sought to enjoy the beautiful landscape. Local authorities quickly dispatched security forces and medical teams to the area, and helicopters were utilized to evacuate the injured.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti condemned the attack, stating, "I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, which tragically killed one and injured several. Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced." She called for a thorough investigation to ensure the safety of visitors in the region, emphasizing the historical warmth with which Kashmir has welcomed tourists.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed his outrage, labeling the attack an "abomination" and describing the perpetrators as "animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt." Abdullah, who was in Ramban at the time of the attack, immediately returned to Srinagar to oversee the situation. He stated, "No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased." His remarks reflect the deep concern felt by many regarding the safety of tourists in the region.
The attack coincides with the peak tourist season in Kashmir, which has seen a resurgence in visitors after years of conflict and unrest. The timing is particularly alarming as the region prepares for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, a significant pilgrimage scheduled to begin on July 3, 2025. This 38-day pilgrimage will see thousands of devotees traverse two routes, one of which begins in Pahalgam.
In response to the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging him to take all suitable measures to ensure the safety of tourists and to visit the site of the attack. Modi expressed his anguish over the incident, stating, "My thoughts are with the family members of the deceased. Those involved in this dastardly act of terror will not be spared, and we will come down heavily on the perpetrators with the harshest consequences."
Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting with senior officials from the Intelligence Bureau and the Ministry of Home Affairs to discuss the security situation in the region. He announced his intention to travel to Pahalgam later in the evening to assess the situation firsthand. Shah's proactive approach underscores the government's commitment to addressing security concerns in a region that has historically faced challenges from terrorism.
Local BJP leader Ravinder Raina attributed the attack to "Pakistani terrorists," stating that it was a cowardly act targeting innocent tourists. He called for strong action against those responsible, emphasizing the need for robust security measures to protect visitors.
This incident marks a significant escalation in violence directed at civilians in J&K, a region that has been striving to recover from years of militancy. The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack, further complicating the security landscape in the area.
Eyewitness accounts from survivors paint a harrowing picture of the attack. One woman recounted how her husband was shot in the head during the gunfire, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the assault. "My husband was shot in the head while seven others were also injured in the attack," she told reporters. This personal tragedy underscores the human cost of violence in a region where tourism has been a vital part of the local economy.
The attack has raised urgent questions about security protocols in tourist areas. Authorities are under pressure to ensure that such incidents do not deter visitors from exploring the natural beauty of Kashmir. The government has emphasized its commitment to maintaining peace and security, especially as the region prepares for the influx of pilgrims and tourists in the coming months.
As investigations continue and security forces remain on high alert, the focus now shifts to ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors in Pahalgam. The government is expected to enhance security measures in popular tourist destinations to prevent future attacks and reassure the public.
This tragic event has not only claimed lives but has also cast a shadow over the efforts to revive tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. The hope is that swift action will be taken to bring those responsible to justice and restore peace to this beautiful part of India.
