27 Tourists, Including Foreign Nationals, Killed in Pahalgam Terror Attack
At least 27 tourists, including two foreign nationals, were killed and dozens injured after terrorists opened fire in Kashmir’s Pahalgam region on Tuesday, officials confirmed.
The brutal attack occurred in Baisaran valley, a popular tourist destination in southern Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where terrorists dressed in military fatigues opened indiscriminate fire on a group of tourists around 2:30 pm. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos and horror as tourists on horseback were gunned down. “We were just sightseeing when bullets started raining down. It was like a nightmare,” said one survivor, visibly shaken.
Among the deceased were at least two foreign nationals. Many of the injured, including women and the elderly, were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment. One tourist succumbed to injuries en route.
Security forces immediately cordoned off the area and launched a massive search operation. Intelligence sources told News18 that there were fears the terrorists might have tried to lure the forces into a secondary ambush.
“We are treating this as one of the most serious attacks in the valley in recent years,” a senior intelligence official stated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently visiting Saudi Arabia, was briefed on the incident by Home Minister Amit Shah. Shah, who is set to reach Srinagar, vowed swift and decisive action.
“Those behind this despicable act will not be spared,” Shah said. “We will come down heavily on the perpetrators with the harshest consequences.”
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the attack an “abomination” and “the worst kind of inhuman act.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also condemned the attack. “The news is heartbreaking. My condolences to the bereaved families. We stand with them in this tragic hour,” he said.
Former J&K Chief Ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Sajjad Lone also denounced the killings.
This is one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years. The valley, though generally peaceful during the spring tourist season, has seen intermittent flare-ups of terrorism.
Baisaran valley, where the attack occurred, is accessible only by foot or pony rides and is known for its scenic meadows. The region was bustling with tourists ahead of the summer season.
Lt Governor Manoj Sinha assured strict action and full medical aid to victims. “Army and J&K Police are on the job. The culprits will not go unpunished,” he said.
Security forces continue to comb the area while authorities assess whether additional personnel will be deployed to protect vulnerable tourist zones.
