Terror attack in Pahalgam kills 26 tourists

Pahalgam

In a horrifying act of terror, 26 civilians lost their lives on Tuesday at Baisaran, a popular tourist spot near Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The attackers targeted visitors in the open meadow, where people were enjoying pony rides and picnics.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the incident was "much larger than anything we've seen directed at civilians in recent years." The attack happened around 3 PM and coincided with US Vice President J D Vance's visit to India. It could be the worst in Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama blast.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his grief and said, "Those involved in this dastardly act of terror will not be spared." He left for Srinagar to lead a high-level security meeting.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic, with gunshots echoing through the hills as tourists ran for safety. “My husband was shot in the head,” one woman told PTI over the phone, begging for help.

Local MLA Altaf Ahmad Wani called the act "cowardly" and said the attackers went against the very teachings of Islam.

Security forces have launched a large-scale manhunt while evacuations continued with help from locals, ponies, and a helicopter. The serene town of Pahalgam now mourns a day that began with joy but ended in tragedy.

Karnataka tourist killed in Pahalgam Attack

A terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed the life of Manjunath Rao a realtor from Shivamogga district in Karnataka, who was shot dead in front of his wife and son. His wife, Pallavi, and son Abhi are safe. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held an emergency meeting and sent teams to Kashmir. Karnataka officials are coordinating efforts, and the state government has promised full support to the victims and their families.