The Pahalgam terror attack has drawn widespread condemnation and shock, particularly from Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who called it an “abomination” and “the worst kind of inhuman act” in recent memory. Speaking out strongly on social media, Omar said:
“I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators are animals, inhuman and worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough.”
The incident, which occurred in Baisaran valley, a serene and popular tourist destination accessible only on foot or by ponies, has left at least 12 injured, with one tourist confirmed dead, although Omar said the final death toll was still being ascertained.
He described the attack as “much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years,” indicating a serious escalation in the targeting of non-locals and tourists.
Omar also confirmed he was rushing back to Srinagar, while his party colleague, Sakina Itoo had already gone to the hospital to ensure proper treatment and support for the injured victims.
According to reports, the attack took place on Tuesday afternoon, when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists enjoying their time in the picturesque meadows of Baisaran. Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of horror and chaos:
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One woman tearfully begged rescuers to save her husband.
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Another claimed that the attacker deliberately targeted her husband, allegedly saying, "You’re not a Muslim," before shooting him.
Security forces reached the area quickly after the sound of gunfire, and evacuation operations were launched immediately. A helicopter was deployed, and locals helped carry victims down the difficult terrain on ponies. The attack was later claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba.
The targeting of tourists, especially with religious overtones, has not only shaken public sentiment but also raised serious concerns about security in Kashmir's vital tourism sector — a sector seen as both an economic driver and a sign of returning normalcy.
As investigations and security operations continue, this brutal attack may reshape policy and security planning in Jammu and Kashmir, especially with the upcoming Amarnath Yatra season and increased tourist footfall in the region.
