The tragic loss of Manjunath, a tourist from Shivamogga, Karnataka, in the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has sent shockwaves across the country. Manjunath had travelled to the scenic region with his wife Pallavi and their young son for a family vacation, which turned into a nightmare.
In a deeply emotional account, Pallavi recounted the horrific moments:
“It happened around 1.30 pm. We were at Pahalgam. He died on the spot, in front of my eyes… It still feels like a bad dream.”
She described the chaos and fear as three to four armed terrorists opened fire, allegedly targeting Hindu tourists. After witnessing her husband being shot, she pleaded with the attackers to kill her as well. In a disturbing response, one of them reportedly told her:
“I won’t kill you. Go tell this to Modi.”
Pallavi also expressed gratitude toward local civilians, saying that three locals came to her aid immediately after the shooting.
As of now, efforts are underway to bring Manjunath’s body back to Karnataka, but the terrain and location have posed logistical challenges. Pallavi made a public appeal:
“The body can’t be brought down easily. It needs to be airlifted. We want it brought back immediately.”
Karnataka Government Response
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has condemned the attack and assured full support to the bereaved family. In a statement on X, he said:
“Kannadigas are among the victims of this shocking incident. Upon receiving the news, I convened an emergency meeting and reviewed the situation with the Chief Secretary and senior police officials. I have also spoken to the Resident Commissioner in Delhi.”
He added:
“We are closely monitoring the developments. All necessary support will be extended. Please be assured, the Government of Karnataka stands firmly with those affected.”
The terror attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam, which killed Manjunath and injured twelve others, has sparked nationwide outrage. With rising tourism in the Valley, this targeted violence against innocent civilians has once again raised concerns about security measures in sensitive areas.
Security forces continue their operations in the region, and central and state governments are coordinating to ensure swift action and support for all victims and their families.
