PAHALGAM, India – In a shocking act of violence that has stunned the region, gunmen attacked a group of tourists on the scenic Baisaran mountain top in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district, resulting in numerous casualties. Authorities have estimated that as many as 26 people may have lost their lives in what is being described as one of the most severe terror attacks in recent history targeting civilians in this area.
The assault commenced in the early afternoon when assailants descended from the mountains into the Baisaran valley, often referred to as ‘mini Switzerland’ for its picturesque landscapes. According to officials, the area is a popular tourist spot roughly 85 kilometers from the administrative center in Srinagar.
Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, addressed the gravity of the situation on social media, stating that this unprecedented attack is significantly larger than recent incidents, and the exact number of casualties is still being confirmed. He emphasized the severity of the attack and extended his deepest condolences to the families of the victims while wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded.
In response to the violence, security operations have intensified in the region. Authorities immediately initiated a search and cordone operation in an effort to locate and apprehend the terrorists responsible for the carnage. The injured have been swiftly transported to district medical facilities to receive the necessary care.
The national response to this tragedy has been swift and firm. President Droupadi Murmu vocally condemned the attack, labeling it as inhuman and a heinous act against innocent people. In a poignant statement, she expressed her condolences to the families who are grieving the loss of their loved ones and called for a strong unified denouncement of such acts of terror.
Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his outrage over the attacks, assuring the public that justice would be served and those responsible would face the full force of the law. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to provide all possible assistance to those affected by this tragedy.
In light of the attack, the Jammu and Kashmir government has launched an Emergency Help Desk, operational round the clock, to assist tourists and provide them with necessary information during this critical time. The helpline numbers have been widely circulated to ensure that anyone in need can reach out for help promptly.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also been actively involved in the situation, having briefed the Prime Minister about the attack and subsequently traveling to Srinagar to participate in an urgent security review meeting. The meeting aimed to evaluate and enhance security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Following the attack, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have both issued strong statements condemning the violence. They have assured the public that efforts are being intensified to ensure the safety of both locals and tourists in the region.
The community, while shaken, has shown resilience in the face of this tragedy. There has been an outpouring of support from across the nation with leaders, citizens, and activists all standing in solidarity against terrorism and extending their support to the affected families.
As investigations continue and security measures are reassessed, the shocking events at Pahalgam serve as a grim reminder of the challenges facing the region and the urgent need for peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. As more information comes to light, authorities remain steadfast in their determination to prevent future acts of terror and to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.