Pahalgam, J&K:  In one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent years, at least 20 people are feared to have lost their lives after terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists at the scenic Baisaran meadow, near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which occurred around 2:30 pm on Tuesday, has sent shockwaves across the country and triggered high-level security responses.

According to eyewitnesses, heavily armed terrorists, dressed in military-style fatigues, stormed the popular tourist spot – often referred to as ‘mini Switzerland’ – and began indiscriminately firing on unsuspecting tourists. The meadow, located approximately 5 km from Pahalgam town and accessible only by foot or pony, was teeming with visitors at the time of the attack.

Visuals from the site painted a grim picture – bodies lay scattered on the grass, while panicked survivors, including women and children, cried for help. “There was no place to hide. People were running in all directions,” said a local guide who witnessed the bloodshed.

Security forces swiftly cordoned off the area and launched a combing operation. However, the attackers managed to flee, triggering a massive manhunt across the region. The Resistance Front (TRF), a known proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the assault.

Nationwide Outrage; PM, HM Condemn Attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack in strong terms, offering condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the injured. Taking to social media platform X, he said, “Those behind this heinous act will not be spared. Their evil agenda will never succeed. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable.”

PM Modi also spoke with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and instructed him to take all necessary measures and visit the site. Shah immediately convened a high-level security meeting with top officials from the Intelligence Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Jammu and Kashmir Police.

In a post on X, Shah expressed deep anguish: “Those involved in this dastardly act will face the harshest consequences. I have briefed the Prime Minister and will shortly leave for Srinagar to review the situation.”

Shah left for Srinagar at around 7 pm and is expected to hold an urgent security review meeting with all concerned agencies late Tuesday night.

Local Leaders React; J&K in Mourning

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the attack “an abomination” and said the perpetrators were “inhuman and worthy of contempt.” In a heartfelt message, he said, “I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased. I’m flying back to Srinagar immediately to oversee the situation.”

Former CM and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the incident. “Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced. Kashmir has always welcomed tourists warmly. This rare but deeply disturbing incident demands a thorough investigation and swift action.”

J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that emergency medical arrangements had been put in place. “One injured tourist has been evacuated to GMC Anantnag. I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured.”

Security across Jammu and Kashmir has been heightened in the wake of the attack. Authorities have also issued advisories for tourists and deployed additional forces to sensitive locations.

A Day of Silence in Pahalgam

Once abuzz with tourists, Pahalgam wore a grim look by evening. Shops shut down, roads were deserted, and a heavy security presence was visible as the picturesque hill station mourned its darkest day in years.

As the country grapples with the horror of the attack, the demand for stronger counter-terror operations and stricter surveillance in tourist areas has grown. This tragedy marks a grim reminder of the fragile peace in the region and the persistent threat posed by cross-border terror outfits.