In a horrific act of violence, 26 tourists, including two foreigners, lost their lives in a brutal terror attack at Baisaran meadows in the scenic Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The Pahalgam terror attack has sent shockwaves across the nation, drawing strong condemnation from political leaders and prompting swift action from central and state governments.
According to officials, a group of heavily armed terrorists emerged from the dense forest surrounding the Baisaran trekking route and opened indiscriminate fire on a group of tourists. The area, often referred to as “Mini Switzerland” for its breathtaking landscapes, turned into a site of tragedy within minutes.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the site on Wednesday morning to evaluate the situation firsthand. Speaking to newshounds, he stated, “This turned into not just an assault on civilians—it became an assault on India’s soul. We won’t stop until every perpetrator is brought to justice.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who returned from Saudi Arabia the same day, held an emergency meeting at Delhi airport with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Sources say the PM has instructed security forces to intensify counter-terrorism operations in the region.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the bloodbath, calling it “an abomination” and “the most shocking attack on civilians in recent years.” He assured the public that the perpetrators would face the full force of the regulation.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi additionally expressed grief and stated he had spoken to key stakeholders such as Amit Shah and Omar Abdullah to make certain coordinated movement.
As a measure of relief, the J&K Government announced ₹10 lakh ex gratia for the families of the deceased and ₹2 lakh for the seriously injured. Emergency medical teams and psychological support units have been deployed in Pahalgam to aid victims and families. This Pahalgam terror attack is being widely viewed as a stark reminder of the continuing threat of terrorism in the region, even amidst efforts to promote Kashmir as a safe tourist destination. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are analysing security lapses that led to such a devastating breach.
