Terror strikes Kashmir; 28 tourists killed in terrorist attack in Pahalgam

SRINAGAR: 28 innocent people lost their lives in a horrifying terror attack that shattered the calm of once-peaceful Kashmir. The attackers, dressed in military uniforms, descended the hills of Baisaran Hill Station in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, and opened fire indiscriminately at tourists. Over ten people were injured. Among the deceased are reportedly two foreign nationals. One of the victims has been identified as Manjunath (47), a resident of Karnataka.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a terrorist outfit linked to the Pakistani terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack. The area has been surrounded by the Indian army, though the terrorists managed to escape over the hills. The attack occurred around 3 p.m. yesterday.

The terrorists stormed the area where the tourists were gathered and opened fire without mercy. Among the four attackers in military attire, three are believed to be foreigners, while one is thought to be a local. The victims were tourists who had come for trekking in Baisaran, famously known as the "Mini Switzerland" for its scenic beauty.

Baisaran, located in Pahalgam in the Anantnag district, is accessible only by foot or horseback. Security forces and rescue teams rushed to the site via helicopter. The injured and the deceased were transported to hospitals.

Amit Shah in Srinagar

Following the directives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently in Saudi Arabia, Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Srinagar to assess the situation. The Prime Minister has called for all necessary steps to be taken. A high-level meeting was held in Delhi under Amit Shah’s leadership. Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who was in Delhi, accompanied Shah. Northern Army Commander Lt. General M.V. Suchindra Kumar also reached Srinagar and held discussions with formation commanders.

Won’t spare the guilty: Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, vowing that the perpetrators of this heinous act would not be spared and would be brought to justice. He wished a speedy recovery for the injured and assured all possible support for the victims and their families. "Such evil agendas will never succeed. Our fight against terrorism is unwavering and will only grow stronger," he affirmed.

Judges from Kerala safe

Three Kerala High Court judges currently visiting Kashmir are confirmed to be safe. Justices Anil K. Narendran, P.G. Ajith Kumar, and G. Girish are in Srinagar and are expected to return to Kerala today. The judges had been in Pahalgam, the site of the attack, on Monday.

Malayali among the dead

Among the victims is a Malayali: N. Ramachandran, a resident of Edappally, Ernakulam. He had arrived in Kashmir yesterday with his family. He was killed in front of his children. His wife and daughter are reported to be safe.

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