Pahalgam Attack: 28 Killed in Kashmir’s Worst Civilian Massacre in Years​

Pahalgam Attack: 28 Killed in Kashmir’s Worst Civilian Massacre in Years​AP News

On April 22, 2025, a devastating terrorist attack unfolded in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claiming the lives of at least 28 people and injuring over 20 others. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for this heinous act, which targeted tourists and civilians enjoying the scenic locale. ​People.com+2Wikipedia+2The New Indian Express+2

Attack Details

The assault occurred around 2:50 PM IST when four to six militants, dressed in military-style uniforms, emerged from nearby forests and opened fire on the unsuspecting crowd. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants initially posed as policemen, asking for names before suddenly opening fire, targeting men while sparing most women. Survivors recounted that the attackers singled out non-Muslims, asking victims to recite the kalma and checking for circumcision. Those who failed were shot. ​Wikipedia

Casualties and Victims

Among the deceased were 24 Indian tourists from various states, including Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, Haryana, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. Two locals from Jammu and Kashmir and two foreign tourists from Nepal and the United Arab Emirates also lost their lives. At least 20 others sustained injuries in the attack. ​Wikipedia

Government Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, cut short his trip and returned to New Delhi to address the crisis. He condemned the attack, emphasizing India’s resolve to combat terrorism and ensure justice for the victims. ​The New Indian ExpressWikipedia

Union Home Minister Amit Shah traveled to Srinagar to assess the situation and coordinate the security response. In a statement, he vowed that those responsible would face the “harshest consequences.” Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also returned from her official visit abroad to participate in high-level meetings addressing the attack. ​Wikipedia+1Financial Times+1

International Condemnation

The attack drew widespread international condemnation. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed solidarity with India, stating that the U.S. stands strong with India against terrorism. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the “brutal crime,” emphasizing that its perpetrators would face deserved punishment. Leaders from Italy and the United Arab Emirates also expressed their condolences and support. ​AP NewsThe New Indian Express

Secret Discussions on Compensation and Action

According to emerging reports, there are discussions between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding substantial compensation packages for the families of the victims. Sources suggest that the government is considering significant financial assistance and support measures to aid the bereaved families. Additionally, there is talk of implementing stricter security protocols and intelligence operations to prevent such incidents in the future.​

Ongoing Investigation and Security Measures

In response to the attack, security forces have launched a massive manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators. Approximately 100 suspected sympathizers have been detained for questioning. The region has seen increased security deployments, and helplines have been established to assist affected tourists and their families. ​WikipediaReuters

The Pahalgam attack stands as a grim reminder of the persistent threats in the region and underscores the need for vigilant security measures to protect civilians and restore peace in Jammu and Kashmir.​