Terror Attack in Pahalgam Claims One Tourist's Life, Injures 12 Others; Home Minister Amit Shah Heads to Srinagar
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Synopsis
A tragic terror attack in Pahalgam resulted in the death of a tourist and injuries to 12 others, including locals and fellow tourists. Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Srinagar for an urgent security review following the incident.
Key Takeaways
- One tourist killed in Pahalgam terror attack.
- At least 12 others injured, including locals.
- Emergency meeting called by Home Minister Amit Shah.
- Security forces have cordoned off the area.
- Investigation underway to track down assailants.
Srinagar, April 22 (NationPress) In a tragic incident, one tourist lost their life and at least 12 others, comprising both tourists and locals, sustained injuries in a terrorist attack at the Pahalgam hill station, located in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, on Tuesday during a vibrant tourist season in the Valley.
The attack occurred when terrorists targeted a group of tourists in the Baisran area of Pahalgam.
According to reports, 2 to 3 assailants dressed in army uniforms opened fire on horse-riding tourists at approximately 2:30 p.m. Baisran, a scenic meadow located about 3 to 4 km from the Pahalgam market, is accessible only by horseback due to the absence of a motorable road.
"One tourist was killed in this attack, and several others, including tourists and locals, were injured. The injured have been transported to Pahalgam Hospital, with those in critical condition transferred to Srinagar for specialized medical attention," an official stated, mentioning that the area has been sealed off by security personnel to track the attackers.
Sources indicate that the number of casualties may increase.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently in Saudi Arabia, spoke with Union Home Minister Amit Shah following the attack, directing him to implement all necessary measures. The Home Minister was also instructed to visit the scene of the attack.
In response, the Home Minister convened an emergency meeting to address the Pahalgam terror incident.
"I am deeply saddened by the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Those responsible for this heinous act will face severe consequences. I informed PM Shri @narendramodi Ji about the situation and held a meeting with relevant officials via video conference. I will soon depart for Srinagar to conduct an urgent security review with all agencies," the Home Minister shared in a post on X.
J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his shock regarding the incident but assured that those accountable for the attack will be held to justice. "I unequivocally condemn this cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam. The individuals behind this reprehensible act will not escape punishment. I have communicated with the DGP and security officials. Army and J&K Police teams are currently in the area conducting search operations," the LG stated on X.
"I’m utterly appalled. This attack on our visitors is an atrocity. The perpetrators are inhuman and deserve nothing but contempt. Words of condemnation fall short. I extend my sympathies to the families of the deceased. I’ve been in contact with my colleague @sakinaitoo, who has gone to the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured. I’ll be returning to Srinagar immediately. #Pahalgam," Chief Minister Omar Abdullah mentioned in a post on X.
PDP President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti condemned the attack, labeling it as cowardly.
"Such violence is intolerable and must be condemned. Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists with open arms, making this rare incident particularly alarming. A comprehensive investigation is essential to bring the perpetrators to justice and assess potential security breaches. Ensuring the safety of visitors is critical, and measures must be implemented to prevent future attacks. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families," she posted on X.
This marks the first terrorist attack on tourists in the Kashmir Valley in 2025, coinciding with an ongoing prosperous tourist season. All hotels in Srinagar city, as well as tourist destinations such as Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg, are fully booked.
An unprecedented influx of tourists is anticipated in J&K this year, with official projections estimating around 20 million visitors to the union territory. The attack occurred during the registration period for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, which is set to begin on July 3 and conclude on August 9, aligning with the Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals, respectively.
During his visit to J&K last month, the Union Home Minister led a high-level security review meeting, where he mandated the complete eradication of terrorism, particularly focusing on the Jammu division. He also issued orders for a strict stance against infiltration.
