Jammu Kashmir Terror Attack:- In a devastating act of terror, at least 26 tourists are feared dead and several others injured after heavily armed militants opened fire in the popular meadow of Baisaran, near Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir. The incident, which unfolded Tuesday afternoon, marks one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in the region since 2019.

A Shocking Attack on Tourists Enjoying Nature

According to initial reports from central intelligence agencies, the attack occurred when tourists were enjoying pony rides and picnics in Baisaran, often referred to as “Mini Switzerland” due to its scenic beauty.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes—bullets flying, people screaming, and families desperately trying to find cover in the open grassland, surrounded by dense deodar forests. “There was no place to hide,” said one woman tourist, who narrowly escaped with minor injuries.

Another tourist told PTI over a distressing phone call: “My husband was shot in the head. Please send help… seven others near me were also hit.”

Army and CRPF Rushed to the Scene

Local police, Indian Army, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel quickly reached the scene after receiving initial reports of gunfire. By the time they arrived, however, the terrorists had fled deep into the surrounding forested hills.

Security forces have launched a massive manhunt in and around Pahalgam. Helicopters are reportedly being used for aerial surveillance.

“Worst Civilian Attack in Years,” Says Omar Abdullah

I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased. I’ve spoken to my colleague @sakinaitoo…

— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) April 22, 2025

Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the attack one of the most horrifying assaults on civilians in recent memory. “I’m shocked. This is beyond disgusting. Our visitors were enjoying peace, and they were gunned down by monsters,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

He added, “Words aren’t enough to condemn this. My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives.”

PM Modi Reacts: “They Will Not Be Spared”

I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.

Those behind this heinous act will be brought…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack and offered condolences to the families of the victims. “This heinous act of terrorism will not go unpunished. Our resolve to fight terror remains unshaken,” Modi posted.

He added that all possible assistance is being provided to the injured and their families.

Home Minister Shah to Visit Srinagar

Anguished by the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. My thoughts are with the family members of the deceased. Those involved in this dastardly act of terror will not be spared, and we will come down heavily on the perpetrators with the harshest consequences.…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 22, 2025

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is currently on a visit to Saudi Arabia, has been briefed and is returning early to India. Shah stated he would personally review the situation from Srinagar and ensure stringent action is taken.

“This cowardly attack won’t be tolerated. We will hunt down every last perpetrator involved,” he said on X.

2019 Pulwama Echoes Return

This attack is being termed as the biggest terrorist strike in the region since Pulwama, where 47 CRPF personnel were killed in a 2019 suicide bombing. Though details are still unfolding, officials fear the tourism revival in Kashmir might once again suffer due to such violence.

Why Pahalgam?

Pahalgam is a beloved tourist spot and a gateway to the Amarnath Yatra. Over recent years, the area had seen a surge in footfall, signaling a return to normalcy after decades of insurgency.

That calm was shattered on Tuesday, leaving questions about security arrangements in such high-footfall tourist zones.