Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 24: In what is being described as one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in recent times, the serene Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam turned into a battleground on Tuesday afternoon, claiming the lives of 26 innocent people, including tourists and a local pony ride operator.
According to sources from the security establishment, at least five to six heavily armed terrorists carried out the meticulously coordinated assault. Emerging from the pine forest bordering the meadow, they stormed three key tourist spots within the lush landscape, unleashing ten minutes of indiscriminate gunfire.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of utter panic and horror as the first shots rang out around 1:50 pm. Children playing on trampolines and families enjoying local snacks were caught completely unaware. Survivors recalled that the assailants questioned the tourists about their religion and even subjected some to an Islamic verse recitation before executing them at point-blank range—most by headshots.
Initial investigations suggest the killers may have worn body cameras, possibly to record the chilling massacre. The attack’s brutality has shocked the nation and sparked widespread condemnation.
Due to the remote location and difficult terrain—accessible only via a long trek or pony ride—security forces and emergency responders took nearly an hour to reach the site. Many victims reportedly succumbed to injuries while awaiting help, prompting questions about preparedness in high-tourist zones.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cutting short his visit to Saudi Arabia, returned to the country and assured swift and stern action. “Those behind this heinous act will not be spared,” he stated in a social media post.
The timing of the attack is also significant—it occurred during the India visit of US Vice President JD Vance. As tensions mount, security agencies have pointed fingers at Pakistan, accusing it of orchestrating the bloodshed through proxy elements.
In a strong diplomatic response, India has suspended the Indus Water Treaty and closed the Attari Integrated Check Post. Travel under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme has been cancelled for Pakistani nationals, and several officials from the Pakistan High Commission have been asked to leave by May 1, with diplomatic strength being halved.
Home Minister Amit Shah visited the attack site and assured the grieving families of justice. The government has reiterated its resolve to eliminate terrorism and safeguard every citizen, ensuring the Baisaran massacre becomes a turning point in India’s fight against terror.