Pahalgam Terror Attack: On Tuesday afternoon, April 22, terrorists launched a brutal attack near Pahalgam, Kashmir. The strike killed at least 26 people. Most of the victims were tourists. Officials confirmed the attack occurred around 3 PM in Baisaran, a scenic meadow often called “mini Switzerland.”
Pahalgam Terror Attack: Scene of Horror at Baisaran
Baisaran lies about six kilometers from Pahalgam. Tourists often visit for pony rides, picnics, and nature walks. On this tragic day, armed terrorists suddenly opened fire. They targeted people relaxing in the lush meadow. Eyewitnesses described chaos and panic. People ran, cried, and shouted, trying to escape.
A tourist from Gujarat said the shooting created instant chaos. Families got separated. Children screamed in terror. The peaceful meadow turned into a battlefield.
Pahalgam Terror Attack: Rising Death Toll and Injuries
Officials said 26 people died, including two foreigners and two local residents. However, the exact number may rise. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that authorities are still verifying the toll. He called the strike “much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years.”
Additionally, the attack left over 20 people injured. Some of them remain in critical condition. Doctors are working hard to save lives in nearby hospitals.
Claim of Responsibility
The Resistance Front (TRF), a known proxy of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack. Security sources believe the attackers may have entered from Kishtwar. They likely crossed Kokernag in South Kashmir to reach Baisaran.
This planned route helped them avoid detection. Now, soldiers and local police are searching the area. They have set up checkpoints and blocked roads. Inspector General Vidi Kumar Birdi confirmed that no vehicles can access the exact location due to its elevation.
Swift Government Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah immediately briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister, who was in Saudi Arabia, expressed deep sorrow. He condemned the attack and ordered swift action. “Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice,” he said.
Mr. Shah soon left for Srinagar. He will lead a high-level security meeting with key agencies. The government has launched a full-scale investigation.
International Attention and Tourist Season Impact
The attack happened as US Vice President J.D. Vance visited India. The strike also coincided with the start of Kashmir’s busy tourist season. The timing appears deliberate, aiming to damage peace and tourism.
Video footage circulating online shows soldiers rushing toward the scene. Some clips suggest the gunmen may have targeted non-Muslims. These claims are under investigation.
Unverified social media videos show bodies lying in the meadow. People can be heard crying and begging for help. The images are heartbreaking and have drawn global attention.
Kashmir in Mourning
This incident marks the deadliest attack in Kashmir since Pulwama in 2019. People across India are mourning. Locals and tourists alike remain in shock. Security forces are now combing the area to find and arrest the attackers.
The government has vowed to respond with strength. Kashmir, once again, faces the challenge of restoring peace and safety in its beautiful yet volatile valleys. Get the latest market insights, latest news, and crime news — visit News Trendzs today!
