PM Modi to shorten Saudi Arabia visit following Jammu and Kashmir terror attack: Government sources
PAHALGAM, J&K, India — A brutal terrorist attack shattered the calm of Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Tuesday, killing at least 24 people and injuring more than 20. Victims included tourists from Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, as well as foreign nationals from Italy and Israel. The Resistance Front (TRF), an affiliate of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility, marking this as one of the deadliest attacks in the region since Pulwama in 2019.
The assault began around 2:30 PM when two to three gunmen dressed in military-style uniforms opened fire on tourists riding horses in the scenic valley, often called “Mini Switzerland.” Around 50 shots were fired, sparking panic as people fled for their lives. One survivor told PTI, “My husband was shot in the head, and seven others were hit.” Eyewitnesses suggested the attackers may have targeted victims based on religion, though authorities have not confirmed this.
Among the dead was 47-year-old Manjunath Rao, a businessman from Karnataka. At least five people are in critical condition, while 12 others are being treated at Pahalgam Hospital and GMC Anantnag. One critically injured victim was flown to SKIMS Hospital in Srinagar for advanced care.
Swift Response and Nationwide Condemnation
Security forces responded immediately. The Indian Army’s Victor Force, J&K Police’s Special Operations Group, and CRPF launched a joint anti-terror operation, deploying Para Commandos and aerial surveillance to locate the attackers. Union Home Minister Amit Shah landed in Srinagar on Tuesday evening following an emergency meeting in Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the “cowardly” attack, vowing that those responsible “will not be spared.” President Droupadi Murmu described the assault as “dastardly and inhuman.” J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured full medical support for the injured and pledged justice. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has sent teams to coordinate relief efforts, while BJP leaders like JP Nadda and Rajnath Singh also strongly condemned the violence.
Targeting Tourism and Stability
The TRF, led by wanted terrorist Sheikh Sajjad Gul, is believed to be targeting the region’s growing tourism industry. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, tourist arrivals have surged in Kashmir. Intelligence reports had previously warned of a possible LeT-backed strike in Baisaran Valley, possibly linked to high-profile visits like that of U.S. Vice President JD Vance. With the Amarnath Yatra approaching, the attack raises alarms over further threats.
Emergency Measures in Place
The Anantnag Police have set up a 24-hour helpline (+91-9596777669, +91-01932225870, WhatsApp: +91-9419051940) to assist affected tourists. Panic has gripped the area, with videos circulating online showing tourists fleeing en masse. Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar called the attack “horrific,” while social media posts speculated on Pakistani involvement—though no official confirmation has been made.
Persistent Threat
The TRF has a history of deadly strikes, including the 2024 Ganderbal attack that left seven dead. In 2022, 108 out of 172 terrorists killed in J&K were affiliated with the TRF, indicating the group’s significant presence. Former CM Omar Abdullah described Tuesday’s massacre as “the most serious civilian-targeted attack in recent memory.”
As investigations continue and security operations intensify, authorities fear the death toll may rise. The attack has once again highlighted the fragile peace in Jammu and Kashmir—and the continued threat to civilians and visitors alike.
Global Leaders Condemn Pahalgam Terror Attack
World leaders have voiced strong condemnation of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with India.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump called the incident “deeply disturbing” and reaffirmed America’s steadfast support for India in its fight against terrorism. He offered heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced the attack as a “brutal crime” with no justification. He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and conveyed best wishes for the recovery of the injured.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also condemned the act of terror, reiterating its firm stance against all forms of violence and extremism. The UAE expressed sincere condolences and wished the injured a swift recovery.
International Solidarity poured in from leaders of France, Italy, Israel, Denmark, and others, who joined in condemning the attack and stressed the urgent need for united global action against terrorism.
This wave of global condemnation reflects the international community’s shared resolve to stand with India and confront the scourge of terrorism together.
SOURCE : AGENCIES | Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |
