A deadly terrorist attack in the picturesque Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed the lives of at least 26 people, including two foreign nationals, two locals, and an Indian Navy officer. The tragedy, which unfolded on Tuesday, has sparked national outrage and led to widespread calls for justice and accountability.
The assailants opened fire in a targeted attack, leaving over a dozen others injured, many of whom were tourists. The wounded were rushed to nearby hospitals, with medical officials confirming that 12 people were admitted in stable condition. One of the victims, Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, aged 26, was on leave from his post in Kochi and had recently married. The site, known for its scenic beauty and often dubbed “mini-Switzerland,” posed challenges for emergency response due to its remote access—only reachable on foot or horseback.
India’s top leadership, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, have condemned the act, calling it “barbaric,” “inhuman,” and “unpardonable.” PM Modi, currently on a visit to Saudi Arabia, instructed Home Minister Shah to oversee all necessary measures and assured the nation that the perpetrators would not go unpunished.
President Murmu described the attack as “shocking and painful,” stressing the need for unequivocal condemnation. PM Modi emphasized that “those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice… their evil agenda will never succeed.”
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition, lashed out at the central government for downplaying the situation in Kashmir, stating that the attack reflects a grave security failure. He said, “The whole country is united against terrorism,” and urged authorities to act decisively to prevent future tragedies.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti echoed the need for a thorough investigation, calling the violence deeply concerning and a breach of Kashmir’s legacy of hospitality. J&K CM Omar Abdullah described the incident as “an abomination” and flew back to Srinagar to oversee the recovery efforts.
BJP’s Ravinder Raina accused Pakistani terrorists of orchestrating the attack and pledged that those responsible, including any local collaborators, would face harsh punishment. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured citizens that search operations are underway, and justice would be delivered.
The coordinated response highlights the national unity in the face of terrorism, but the tragedy has reignited pressing questions about regional security, intelligence preparedness, and the safety of civilians—especially in tourism-heavy regions like Kashmir.
As investigations unfold, families of the victims, citizens, and leaders alike await swift justice, while mourning the lives lost in one of the most brutal attacks in recent memory.
