Daijiworld Media Network – Pahalgam
Pahalgam, Apr 22: A terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday left one tourist dead and at least 12 others, including both tourists and locals, injured. The attack took place in the Baisran area, a popular hill station, when 2 to 3 terrorists in army fatigues opened fire on a group of tourists riding horses.
The attack occurred around 2:30 pm as the terrorists targeted unsuspecting tourists in the picturesque Baisran area, which is 3 to 4 kilometers away from the Pahalgam market. The area, known for its natural beauty, can only be accessed by horse as there are no motorable roads.
Authorities reported that one tourist was killed in the attack, and several others were injured. The injured were initially taken to Pahalgam hospital, with the critically injured being moved to Srinagar for specialized treatment. The area has since been cordoned off by security forces, and operations are ongoing to apprehend the attackers.
In an emotional account, a tourist from Karnataka, who lost her husband in the attack, spoke to Kannada media. She recounted how she and her 18-year-old son pleaded with the terrorist to kill them too, but the terrorist allegedly spared them and instructed them to inform Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the attack.
The attack has raised fears that the casualty figures may rise, as more injured individuals are being treated.
In response to the incident, Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha expressed his shock and assured that those responsible for the attack would face severe consequences. "Anti-terror operations are underway to neutralize the terrorists. The entire nation is enraged, and we will ensure that the perpetrators pay a heavy price for this heinous act," Sinha said on social media.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is en route to Srinagar, condemned the attack and emphasized that the perpetrators would be dealt with firmly. "I have been briefed by the concerned officials and will soon hold a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar," Shah said, also highlighting the need for immediate action.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti both condemned the violence, calling it a cowardly act. Abdullah vowed to supervise the relief efforts for the injured and assured that security measures would be tightened to prevent further incidents.
The attack has shocked the tourism community in Kashmir, as the region is currently witnessing a thriving tourist season. Hotels in Srinagar, Pahalgam, and other tourist destinations are fully booked, with projections for record-breaking tourist arrivals this year. The attack also comes as preparations for the Amarnath Yatra, set to begin in July, are underway.
Security forces have launched a massive manhunt to track down the terrorists behind the attack, with ongoing operations involving the Army and J&K Police.