PAHALGAM: A terror attack struck the tourist spot Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Anantnag, targeting a group of Indian and foreign tourists. The attackers, dressed in military-style outfits, opened indiscriminate fire with automatic rifles including AK-47s and M4 carbines.
→ At least 34 people were killed, including children and women; over 20 others were injured, many critically.
→ Eyewitnesses say attackers selectively targeted non-Muslims, reportedly asking victims to recite Islamic verses or undergo religious identification.
→ The militant group The Resistance Front (TRF), affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility.
→ A joint security operation was launched by the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police in and around Pahalgam.
→ Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his foreign visit, chaired a high-level security meet, and vowed a “strong response.”
→ Home Minister Amit Shah landed in Srinagar and led security review meetings with the LG and state leadership.
→ The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been tasked with the investigation and deployed forensic teams to the valley.
→ Air India added emergency evacuation flights, while the UT administration arranged special buses to help stranded tourists.
→ Markets, schools, and offices across Kashmir observed a spontaneous shutdown in mourning and protest.
→ International condemnation poured in, with statements from the UN, US, EU, and neighboring countries expressing grief and solidarity.
→ Indian Army helicopters, including ALH Dhruv, were deployed for aerial surveillance and rapid troop movement.
→ Security across Jammu & Kashmir has been put on maximum alert, with tourist spots under tight vigil.
