Pahalgam terror attack 2025 leaves 26 tourists dead and dozens injured in Kashmir. PM Modi, global leaders condemn the deadliest strike since Pulwama.
Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir – April 22, 2025:
In one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama incident, armed militants opened fire on a group of tourists in the popular meadow of Baisaran, near the scenic town of Pahalgam. The brutal assault, which occurred around 2:30 PM on Tuesday, claimed the lives of 26 individuals and left more than a dozen injured, including both Indian nationals and foreign tourists.
The terrorists, believed to be associated with The Resistance Front (TRF) — a proxy of the banned Pakistani terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) — stormed the lush grasslands as visitors were enjoying pony rides, picnics, and local food stalls in the area dubbed ‘Mini Switzerland’ for its picturesque beauty.
According to intelligence sources, the attackers are suspected to have infiltrated through Kishtwar and moved via Kokernag to Baisaran. Senior LeT commander Saifullah Kasuri, also known as Khalid, has been identified as the mastermind behind the massacre.
Victims of the Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: Families, Tourists & Foreign Nationals
Among those killed were tourists from various states including Maharashtra, Odisha, Kerala, Telangana, and Karnataka. Two foreign nationals, from the UAE and Nepal, also lost their lives. Heart-wrenching stories have emerged, including that of Lt. Vinay Narwal, a newlywed Navy officer from Haryana, who was visiting on his honeymoon. A real estate businessman from Shivamogga, celebrating his son’s academic success, was also gunned down.
Government Response to the Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia and held an emergency meeting with NSA Ajit Doval, EAM S. Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri upon landing in India. Modi strongly condemned the attack and vowed that those responsible would face the harshest punishment.
“Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable… They will not be spared,” PM Modi posted on X.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah rushed to Srinagar, where he was briefed by J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat. The NIA has also deployed a high-level investigation team to assist local authorities in tracing and neutralizing the attackers.
Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: Global Condemnation & Security Measures
The horrific incident drew condemnation from global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who expressed solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has also decided to return to India immediately, cutting short her diplomatic visits to the US and Peru.
Local Leaders Call for Unity and Vigilance
Leaders across party lines, including Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, and Altaf Kaloo, denounced the violence and called for a full probe into any possible security lapses.
“The perpetrators are inhuman and must be brought to justice,” Omar Abdullah posted on social media.
Certainly, here are the statements from local leaders in Jammu and Kashmir regarding the Pahalgam terror attack:
Omar Abdullah Condemns Attack and Calls for Unity
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed profound shock over the Pahalgam terror attack, describing it as an “abomination. He emphasized the inhumanity of the perpetrators and extended his sympathies to the families of the deceased. In response to the tragedy, Abdullah announced his immediate return to Srinagar to oversee the situation and called for an all-party meeting to address the crisis.
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
The death toll is still being ascertained so I don’t want to get in to those details. They will be officially conveyed as the situation becomes clearer. Needless to say this attack is much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years.
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) April 22, 2025
Mehbooba Mufti Urges Protection for Kashmiris Nationwide
Former Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti condemned the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, labeling it as unacceptable violence. She highlighted the historical hospitality of Kashmir towards tourists and called for a thorough investigation into potential security lapse. Additionally, Mufti urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure the safety of Kashmiris residing in other parts of India, citing concerns over possible backlas.
I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, which tragically killed five and injured several as being reported for now . Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced.
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) April 22, 2025
Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists warmly, making this rare incident deeply…
The Chamber & Bar Association Jammu has called for a complete shutdown tomorrow in protest against the horrific militant attack on tourists. I appeal all Kashmiris to unite in solidarity to support this bandh as a mark of respect for the innocent lives lost in the brutal assault…
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) April 22, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Vows Unyielding Pursuit of Justice
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the Pahalgam terror attack as a “heinous act” and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. He declared that India would identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers, emphasizing that the nation would not rest until justice was served. Modi also stated that the attackers would face consequences “beyond their imagination,” underscoring India’s resolve to combat terrorism.
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.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2025
Those behind this heinous act will be brought…
U.S. President Donald Trump: Expresses Solidarity with India
Former U.S. President Donald Trump described the Pahalgam terror attack as “deeply disturbing” and extended his condolences to the victims. He reaffirmed the United States’ support for India in its fight against terrorism and expressed solidarity with Prime Minister Modi and the Indian people.
In the aftermath, the once-bustling Pahalgam resort town has emptied out as frightened tourists rushed to safer locations. Security forces, including the Army, CRPF, and local police, have launched a massive manhunt across the surrounding forested areas to capture the assailants.
Ongoing Operations and Recovery Efforts
The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, has assured full medical support for the injured, with several victims being airlifted to GMC Anantnag. Emergency measures remain in place, and travel advisories have been issued for tourists planning to visit the Kashmir Valley.
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