Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that left one person dead and twelve others injured. Currently on a two-day visit to Jeddah, the Prime Minister took to social media to extend condolences to the victim's family and assured the nation that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
In his statement, PM Modi said:
“I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.”
He further added:
“Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice... They will not be spared! Their evil agenda will never succeed. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable and it will get even stronger.”
Earlier, PM Modi spoke with Home Minister Amit Shah, directing him to take all necessary measures and to personally visit the site of the attack.
Details of the Attack
The terror attack occurred around 2:30 PM on Tuesday in Baisaran, a meadow near Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination. A group of terrorists disguised in army fatigues opened fire on tourists, reportedly targeting them based on religious identity. A local woman claimed her husband was shot after being told, “You’re not a Muslim.”
The Resistance Front (TRF), a local offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Baisaran, known for its scenic beauty, is accessible only on foot or by ponies, making evacuation difficult. Locals helped carry the injured on ponies, while a helicopter was later deployed for quicker evacuation.
Government Response
Following the attack, Amit Shah held an urgent high-level meeting in Delhi with the Home Secretary, Intelligence Bureau officials, and senior officers from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Jammu and Kashmir DGP and other local officials joined virtually.
In his own statement, the Home Minister said:
“Anguished by the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam... Those involved in this dastardly act will not be spared, and we will come down heavily on the perpetrators with the harshest consequences.”
He confirmed briefing PM Modi and announced his departure for Srinagar to conduct an urgent security review.
Emotional Eyewitness Accounts
Several eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes. One woman broke down, pleading for help for her husband. Survivors recalled how the attackers selectively targeted people and opened fire in a planned, calculated manner. The deliberate targeting of tourists has left many shaken and raised concerns about a new escalation in militant strategies.
Security on High Alert
Security forces responded swiftly after gunfire was reported, launching evacuation and containment efforts. The attack has prompted increased patrolling and deployment in tourist-heavy areas of the Valley. A full investigation is underway, with sources suggesting enhanced surveillance and counter-insurgency operations will follow in the region.
This attack comes at a time when the Valley had seen a rise in tourism and relative calm, making the incident even more alarming for security agencies and civilians alike.
