Breaking | Terror Hits Pahalgam: 28 Tourists including two foreign nationals and one local horseman Killed in Cold-Blooded Attack, Nation Mourns, Netas React
Pahalgam/Srinagar, April 22 – In one of the most horrific terror strikes in recent times, 26 innocent tourists were gunned down and 18 others were injured in a chilling attack by terrorists at a tourist resort in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
The attack has sent shockwaves across the country and is being seen as a deliberate attempt to cripple the Valley’s recovering tourism economy just ahead of the summer season.
The victims, many of them from Gujarat and Maharashtra, were relaxing at the picturesque resort when terrorists opened indiscriminate fire.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of mayhem as people ran for cover while gunmen fired randomly, turning a peaceful holiday destination into a warzone.
The video is viral on social media with young wife screaming for help to shift her husband to hospital.
What is shocking is that there was no policeman around, no security petrol, no police help, no ambulance around the tourist area.
The terrorists came, opened fire on helpless tourists and disappeared from the resort leaving the resort littered with bleeding bodies and screams.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the "cowardly terror attack" and said security forces have launched a massive manhunt.
> "I assure the people that those behind this despicable attack will not go unpunished. I’ve spoken to the DGP and security officials.
The injured have been shifted to GMC Anantnag for treatment. I pray for their speedy recovery," he said.
But official version on terror toll is not out so far.
The attack comes as a huge blow to the Union Territory’s economy, which had just started to limp back to normalcy after years of violence.
With tourism picking up in May-June, this strike appears aimed at reviving fear in the Valley and deterring visitors.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah came down heavily on the perpetrators and promised swift retribution:
> “We will avenge every drop of innocent blood spilled in Pahalgam. This is not just an attack on tourists—it’s an attack on the idea of peace and humanity. Our forces have been given a free hand to eliminate those responsible.”
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah too condemned the incident in strong words, calling it an assault on the soul of Kashmir:
> "I'm shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators are animals, inhuman, and worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough."
Abdullah said he was cutting short his engagements to return to Srinagar and take stock of the situation.
His party colleague Sakina Itoo has already reached the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured.
Security forces, including the Army and J&K Police, have cordoned off the area and intensified search operations in the forests and adjoining hills.
This attack comes just a year after the deadly assault on Amarnath pilgrims, raising serious questions on intelligence and preparedness under the NC-led alliance government.
With emotions running high and the nation in mourning, pressure is mounting on authorities to not just catch the terrorists, but also fix accountability for what many are calling a massive security failure.
READERS COMMENTS:
The today's militants attack in Kashmir, resulting in the tragic loss of 28 lives and injuries to over 18, highlights the deep-seated issues surrounding violence and sectarianism in the region.
The targeting of individuals based on religion reflects a disturbing trend of cruelty and intolerance. Such incidents not only exacerbate the conflict but also serve as a reminder of the detrimental impact of divisive politics.
The resulting chaos poses significant challenges for India, undermining stability and security. It's a call for urgent dialogue and a more compassionate approach to address the underlying tensions- Pankaj Dhadwal(Ex MD, HPSEBL)
2.Targeting innocent lives is pure evil on the part of these terrorists. Terrorists have no right to live in the civilized society.
May all those who lost their lives in this tragedy rest in peace-- VVAAMANVIR CHAUHAN(BTech Student, CSE).
(Developing story – more updates awaited)
