Kashmir bled again on Tuesday as terrorists shot dead 27 civilians, mostly tourists, at the famous health resort of Pahalgam in South Kashmir. Sources told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that terrorists opened fire at civilians at a famed meadow Baisaran killing at least 27 of them. The attack is the deadliest in Kashmir since the Pulwama strike in 2019.
They said that the exact number of casualties is being ascertained and the toll may go up. The attack came up at a time when US Vice President J D Vance is visiting India and just as the tourist and trekking season is picking up momentum.
Baisaran, about 6 kilometres from Pahalgam, is an expansive meadow dubbed ‘mini Switzerland’ ringed by dense pine forests and mountains and a favourite with visitors from across the country and the world.Witnesses said that the terrorists appeared in the meadow around 3 pm and resorted to indiscriminate firing at civilians milling around eateries, taking pony rides or just picnicking.Videos which went viral on social media painted a chilling picture of gunfire breaking the calm of a regular afternoon with scores of people enjoying their day out.
Cries for help were heard as lifeless bodies lay motionless in pools of blood.With Baisaran accessible only by foot or horses, choppers were deployed to evacuate the injured. The families of those killed and injured were taken to the government-owned Pahalgam Club under tight security.The entire district administration and police force was mobilised and ambulances pressed into service.
Some of the injured were brought down from the meadow by local people on their ponies.Army, CRPF and local police rushed to Baisaran after news came in of gunshots being heard, officials said.A massive anti-terrorist operation has been launched to hunt down the assailants and security forces have fanned out in all directions, they said.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration set up 24X7 emergency control rooms in Anantnag and Srinagar.It may be recalled that on February 14, 2019, 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a suicide attack in south Kashmir’s Pulwama area. Since then, there have been other terror attacks but none as serious. More than 30 people were killed in an attack on Amarnath base camp in Pahalgam in 2000.
A year later, 13 people died in a strike on Amarnath pilgrims at Sheshnag while 11 persons were killed in another attack in 2002 in the Pahalgam area.A tourist couple from Rajasthan was injured in a firing incident by terrorists at Yannar in Pahalgam in May last year. In March 2000 when then US president Bill Clinton was visiting India, terrorists killed 35 Sikhs in Chhattisinghpora in south Kashmir in March 2000.Baisaran, a campsite for trekkers who then move further up to the Tulian lake, is accessible from Pahalgam either on foot or on horses. It offers a panoramic view of Pahalgam town and the Lidder valley—(KNO)
Hours after Pahalgam terror attack, HM Shah arrives in Srinagar
Hours after the deadly terror attack, which left 28 civilians, mostly tourists, dead at Pahalgam in South Kashmir, Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Srinagar on Tuesday to review the security situation.Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the Home Minister was received by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, his advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat and others at the airport.
Sources said that the Chief Minister briefed the Union Home Minister about the Pahalgam attack at the airport itself.Shah drove straight to the Raj Bhavan where he will chair a high level security meet.The security review meeting, sources said, will be attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary, Atal Duloo, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Director IB, ADGP CID, IGP CRPF, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Srinagar based Chinar corps and other top officials.
The Union Home Minister will visit the terror attack site at Baisaran in Pahalgam on Wednesday.Meanwhile, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Suchendra Kumar also arrived in Srinagar to review security situation, defence sources told KNO.
They said the Army Commander will be briefed by local formation commanders on the present security situation in Kashmir. He was in New Delhi for a security conference. Pertinently, earlier in the day terrorists opened fire at Baisaran famed meadow near Pahalgam town this afternoon.Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the terror attack as "much larger than anything we've seen directed at civilians in recent years"—(KNO)
Security beefed up across J&K, high alert in Delhi after Pahalgam attack
Security has been heightened across Jammu and Kashmir, while Delhi has been placed on high alert following a deadly terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that left dozens of people dead on Tuesday.The attack occurred around 2:30 Pm when a group of terrorists, wearing combat uniforms, opened fire on tourists in the upper reaches of Baisaran, a popular trekking and picnic spot in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
Most of the slain are said to be non-locals, who had come to the Valley as part of a larger travel group.An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the security forces have launched a large-scale search and cordon operation in the area to trace the attackers.
"Checkpoints have been increased on highways and entry routes across the Valley, and surveillance has been intensified in major urban centres as well as in rural belts close to forests and highlands," he added.More senior police and paramilitary officials have been sent to Pahalgam to oversee security arrangements, the official added.
A senior government officer from Delhi said that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is expected to take over the case, with a team scheduled to arrive in the region on Wednesday.Meanwhile, the security has been intensified across Udhampur district. At Jakhani Chowk, one of the key entry points, security forces have set up additional checkpoints and are conducting strict checking of vehicles.
The deployment of personnel has been increased in the area to ensure enhanced vigilance and prevent any untoward incident. The official said the measures are part of a broader security review being implemented across Jammu and Kashmir.
Another senior security official said that security measures have been increased across the Kashmir Valley, from the northern to the southern regions, with heightened vigilance, including drone surveillance and additional deployment of forces.
Meanwhile, government sources said a high alert has been issued in Delhi and other major cities across the country. Security agencies have been instructed to stay vigilant, increase patrolling, and monitor crowded public places, transport hubs, and tourist spots as a precautionary measure following the Pahalgam attack, they said—(KNO)
Pahalgam Attack: Locals organize candle light march across Kashmir to express sympathy
In a heartening show of resilience and unity, the people from multiple areas across Jammu and Kashmir organized candle light protests to express their sympathy with the tourists, who were attacked by the terrorists in Pahalgam area of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
As per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), locals from Pahalgam organized a peaceful candlelight march to express their solidarity with the victims and send a message of peace to the world.Scores of locals, including youth, shopkeepers, ponywalas, and hotel owners, gathered in the town square with candles and placards reading “We Stand for Peace” and “Tourists Are Our Guests.”
The march moved through the main market, ending near the Lidder River, where participants held a moment of silence for those affected.A local hotel owner said, “Tourism is our lifeline. Everything we have – our businesses, our livelihoods – depends on it. Without tourism, we can't do anything. That’s why we are here, to show that Pahalgam stands united against violence and in favor of peace and hospitality.”
He said that terrorism of any kind has no space and all must work so that Kashmir continues to be famous for good things not bad.Another local youth said, “We want to reassure all tourists that they are safe here. We condemn this attack in the strongest words and want the world to know that the people of Pahalgam welcome everyone with open arms.”
From Pahalgam to Srinagar, Sopore, Baramulla, Handwara, and Kupwara, people took to the streets carrying candles and placards, expressing anguish over the attack and reaffirming Kashmir’s age-old tradition of hospitality.Protesters chanted slogans like “Stop Innocent Killings,” “Tourists Hamari Jaan Hai,” and “Stop Terrorism,” demanding that those responsible for the massacre be brought to justice.
In Handwara, residents sent out a strong message of resilience and unity. “People of Kashmir are with the tourists. Don’t fear—these acts will be answered. Our neighbouring country must stop its tactics to disrupt peace here,” one resident said, indirectly blaming cross-border elements for the attack.
The protesters not only expressed grief but also stood in defiance of terror, urging the rest of India and the world not to judge Kashmir by the actions of a few. Many said that the attack was meant to malign the region’s image and disturb the growing sense of peace.
The reports of candle light protests were also received from Srinagar’s Makkah Market, where the protesters condemned the attack.The candle light protests were also held in Kupwara, Baramulla. Bajrang Dal workers also held a protest in Jammu. Pertinently, dozens of tourists have reportedly been killed while many others wounded in a terror attack in Pahalgam area this afternoon, leaving the entire nation in shock and grief—(KNO)
LG, CM, LoP Sharma, MLAs, politicians, Mirwaiz, KCCI, fruit growers condemn cowardly act
Cutting across the lines people from all sections of society, including politicians, business leaders, religious clerics, fruit growers and others condemned the terror attack in South Kashmir’s Pahalgam area, which claimed many lives and left several others injured.
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MANOJ SINHA
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha while expressing shock and grief over the cowardly terror attack on tourists, according to the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Perpetrators won't be spared.” The Lieutenant Governor posted on X: "I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. I assure the people that those behind this despicable attack will not go unpunished.
Spoke to the DGP & Security officials. Army and J&K Police teams have rushed to the area and launched search operations. Directed the district administration and the health officials to provide immediate medical attention to those admitted at Pahalgam. An injured tourist has been evacuated to GMC Anantnag. I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured.”
In a separate post, the LG said that the perpetrators of this attack will have to pay a heavy price. “Anti-terror ops launched to neutralise terrorists. Entire nation is angry & blood of our forces is boiling. I want to assure the nation that perpetrators of Pahalgam attack will have to pay a very heavy price for their heinous act. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families,” Office of J&K LG wrote on X.
CHIEF MINISTER OMAR ABDULLAH
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed profound shock and anguish over the horrific terrorist attack on tourists at Pahalgam earlier today.Describing the assault as an “abomination,” the Chief Minister stated that targeting innocent tourists is an act of sheer brutality and inhumanity.“This attack on our visitors is an abomination.
The perpetrators of this attack are animals—inhuman and worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough,” the Chief Minister said in a strongly worded statement.Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended his heartfelt sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
The Chief Minister has been in constant touch with senior officials and has spoken to the Minister of Health, Sakina Itoo, who immediately rushed to the hospital to oversee treatment and support arrangements for the injured.He further announced that he would be flying back to Srinagar immediately to personally monitor the situation and ensure all possible assistance is extended to the victims and their families.
“I’ve spoken to my colleague @sakinaitoo and she has moved to the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured. I’ll be flying back to Srinagar immediately,” he said.Also, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the phone about the tragic incident at the Pahalgam tourist resort.
Dy CM, SURINDER KUMAR CHOUDHARY
Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary in a post termed the attack as a heinous act and said that those responsible are barbaric and devoid of humanity.“I’m utterly horrified by this attack on our people. It’s a heinous act, and those responsible are barbaric and devoid of humanity. Words fall short in expressing the outrage this deserves. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the victims,” Surinder Choudhary wrote.
LEADER OF OPPOSITION SUNIL SHARMA
Leader of Opposition in Legislative Assembly and BJP leader, Sunil Sharma condemned the attack and prayed for the early recovery of the injured persons.“Strongly condemn the cowardly and barbaric terrorist attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir. Praying for the early recovery of the injured. My thoughts are with all those affected,” Sunil Sharma wrote.
MIRWAIZ MOULVI UMAR FAROOQ
Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Moulvi Umar Farooq in a post on X said that such violence is unacceptable and against the ethos of Kashmir. “Deeply disturbing news from Pahalgam of a cowardly attack on tourists that has resulted in tragic loss of life. Such violence is unacceptable and against the ethos of Kashmir which welcomes visitors with love and warmth. Condemn it strongly. Thoughts and prayers with the families of victims and wishing speedy recovery to the injured,” Mirwaiz wrote.
TARIQ HAMEED KARRA
Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra also strongly condemned the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, calling it “highly condemnable”.Talking to reporters in Jammu, Karra as per KNO questioned the BJP’s repeated claims of normalcy in the region, stating that the ground reality paints a different picture.
On the one hand, the BJP claims that terrorism has been wiped out and the situation is peaceful. But such attacks expose the loopholes we have been highlighting for a long time,” Karra said.He highlighted that terrorism, which had shifted towards Jammu recently, appears to be returning to Kashmir, as evident by the Pahalgam attack. “If the situation is so good, as claimed by the BJP, then why are such incidents still taking place,” he asked.
Calling out the BJP for ‘misleading the entire country’, Karra demanded accountability from both the central government and the Union Home Ministry. “They owe an explanation not only to the people of Jammu and Kashmir but to the entire nation,” he said.
Karra acknowledged the efforts of the security personnel in maintaining peace during elections and the Amarnath Yatra. However, he stressed that the recurring violent incidents undermine the BJP’s narrative of peace and normalcy in the region.“The government must clarify the actual situation on the ground. Selling an image of calm while the reality is different is not a sustainable or honest strategy,” Karra said.
MEHBOOBA MUFTI
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chief, Mehbooba Mufti condemned the attack and said that such violence must be denounced. “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. Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists warmly, making this rare incident deeply concerning. A thorough investigation is needed to bring the perpetrators to justice and examine potential security lapses. Ensuring visitor safety is paramount, and steps must be taken to prevent future attacks. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” she wrote.
SAJAD GANI LONE
Handwara legislator and Peoples Conference (PC) Chief, Sajad Gani Lone condemned the attack and said that these terror attacks are aimed at yet again disempowering us economically. “Condemn strongly the dastardly and cowardly attack in Pahalgam. For decades we have been identified with being great hosts. We have a history of hospitality.
And some cowardly terrorists want to destroy it all. Tourism industry has suffered. And people involved in tourism have after a long time begun to restart their lives. They had begun to dream. And here are the ugly villians to shatter it all,” Sajad wrote.
“Make no mistake. These terror attacks are aimed at yet again disempowering us economically. Those who do this are the worst enemies of Kashmiris. They defile our history of hospitality, smearing our glorious past. And they are a curse on our present.
They are enemies of our children of our young generation. We have to unitedly send a message that there is no tolerance for terror. Let us live our lives in peace and economic dignity. Please get out of our lives. These tourists are our revered guests,” he added.
WAHEED-UR-REHMAN PARRA
PDP MLA from Pulwama, Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra in a post said that this senseless violence serves no purpose. “Strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. This senseless violence serves no purpose, defies all sense and humanity. Kashmir has suffered enough,” Parra wrote.
M Y TARIGAMI
Condemning the dastardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami said the inhuman act of violence must be denounced in the strongest possible terms.“Violence serves no purpose and must be condemned from all quarters. Such cowardly attacks on innocent civilians have no place in any civilised society. The perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice without delay,” Tarigami said.
He further said that the attack on tourists, who had come to experience the beauty of Pahalgam, is beyond words—deeply unfortunate and shocking.
ILTIJA MUFTI
PDP leader, Iltija Mufti also condemned the attack and termed it as shameful act of violence. “Strongly condemn the shameful act of violence that’s claimed the lives of five & left many injured in Baisaran Pahalgam today. Kashmiris have always welcomed tourists with open arms & this incident is most unfortunate. Request the media to conduct themselves responsibly & not unnecessarily kindle speculation which could in turn create a sense of panic amongst tourists visiting the Valley,” she wrote.
SYED ALTAF BUKHARI
Apni Party President and former minister, Syed Altaf Bukhari said that targeting innocent tourists is an act of cowardice and a worst form of terrorism. “The terror attack in Pahalgam has left us all deeply shocked and saddened. Targeting innocent tourists is an act of cowardice and a worst form of terrorism.
I am sure that our security agencies will swiftly nab the perpetrators and bring them to justice. My thoughts and prayers are with the injured for a full and speedy recovery, and with their families for strength during this difficult time,” he wrote on X.
HAKEEM MOHAMMAD YASEEN
Jammu and Kashmir People's Democratic Front President Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen expressed shock and grief over the terrorist attack on a group of tourists in Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam. In his statement issued here, Hakeem Yaseen said, "I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear about this heinous terrorist attack that claimed the life of a tourist and left several others injured. This attack is the worst form of terrorism and is highly condemnable." Such violence is unacceptable and against the ethos of Kashmir which welcomes visitors with love and warmth. Condemn it strongly.
Hakeem Yaseen expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.State Secretary of Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), Sheikh Ashiq has said that the attack on tourists in Pahalgam, is a deeply disturbing incident that has caused immense fear and harm to innocent people.“Such acts of violence are unacceptable and condemnable, regardless of the perpetrator or their motives. My thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” he said.
KASHMIR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
Meanwhile, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has expressed deep anguish over the attack on tourists in Pahalgam and strongly condemned this dastardly act of violence.The KCCI demanded that authorities investigate this gruesome attack on a fast track basis and ensure that the culprits are swiftly brought to justice.
The Chamber extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured tourists. The KCCI has appealed to the authorities to provide the best possible medical treatment to all those affected.
The KCCI believes this targeted attack is clearly designed to harm Kashmir's reputation and undermine the flourishing tourism industry. Such acts of violence go against the hospitable nature of Kashmiri people who have always welcomed visitors with open arms.The Chamber reiterated its commitment to supporting all measures that ensure the safety and security of tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley.
FRUIT GROWERS CUM DEALERS UNION
Also, the Management of Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, an umbrella Body of all Fruit Growers Associations of the Valley and the members of The New Kashmir Fruit Association Fruit Marketing Complex, Parimpora, Srinagar, strongly condemned the terrorist attack.
Such violence is unacceptable and against the ethos of Kashmir which always welcome visitors with love and warmth, a statement issued to KNO reads.The Management of Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union and the Members of The New Kashmir Fruit Association, Parimpora, Srinagar prayed with the families of victims and wished speedy recovery of the injured tourists.
The cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam is strongly condemned and such violence is denounced always. Historically Kashmir welcomes tourists warmly making this real incident deeply concerning. A thorough investigation is needed to bring the perpetrators to justice ensuring visitors safely and steps must be taken to prevent future attacks, the statement reads.
Targeting innocent tourists is an act of cowardice and a worst form of terrorism. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured for a full and speedy recovery and with their families for strength during this difficult time. This attack is not on tourists but on humanity—(KNO)
Pahalgam Attack: CCI Jammu calls for Jammu Bandh tomorrow
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu, led by President Arun Gupta, has announced a complete Jammu Bandh on Wednesday, (April 23, 2025) to protest the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag district.The attack, which occurred at Baisaran meadow, claimed dozens of lives, mostly tourists from various states, and left several others injured, marking it as one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent years.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the bandh call has received widespread support from various organizations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, who staged protest marches across Jammu on Tuesday evening to condemn the attack.
The VHP and Bajrang Dal have extended their full support to the CCI’s bandh initiative, urging citizens to join in solidarity to demand justice for the victims and stringent action against the perpetrators of this heinous act.In a statement, CCI President Arun Gupta described the attack as “a barbaric assault on humanity and an attack on the spirit of Jammu & Kashmir tourism.” He called for unity among the people of Jammu to send a strong message against terrorism.
“This bandh is a collective stand against those who seek to disrupt peace and harmony in our region. We urge the government to identify and punish the culprits swiftly and ensure the safety of all citizens and visitors,” Gupta said. He further appealed to all traders, businesses, and citizens to observe a complete shutdown to honor the victims and press for immediate action.
The VHP and Bajrang Dal, during their protests, raised slogans in support of the Indian Army and demanded decisive measures to eliminate terrorism in the region.VHP leaders emphasized that such attacks are an attempt to destabilize the region’s economy and tourism, a vital lifeline for Jammu & Kashmir.
Bajrang Dal activists echoed similar sentiments, pledging their support to the bandh and calling for heightened security to prevent future incidents.The bandh has also been supported by other groups, including the Jammu & Kashmir High Court Bar Association, Shiv Sena (UBT), Dogra Front, Rashtriya Bajrang Dal, and various market associations.
Meanwhile, the authorities have beefed up security across Jammu to maintain law and order, with additional police and paramilitary forces deployed in sensitive areas.The CCI Jammu, VHP, and Bajrang Dal urged all residents, traders, and organizations to participate in the bandh to express solidarity with the victims’ families and to demand a terror-free Jammu & Kashmir.The bandh will see the closure of all shops, businesses, and commercial establishments across Jammu, with public transport likely to be affected—(KNO)
Pahalgam attack puts valley’s peak tourist season at high risk
In a serious jolt to Kashmir’s fragile tourism revival, a terrorist attack on a group of tourists in Pahalgam’s Baisaran area on Tuesday afternoon left 27 persons dead, triggering fear and concern among local stakeholders ahead of the peak travel season.
Officials informed the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), unidentified terrorists opened fire at a tourist group in the upper reaches of Baisaran, a popular trekking and picnic spot in Pahalgam in south Kashmir.The attack comes at a time when the valley had been witnessing a steady increase in tourist arrivals after years of disruption.
Pahalgam, known for its scenic beauty and proximity to the Amarnath Yatra route, draws thousands of visitors annually, including families, trekkers, and pilgrims.The assault has sparked anxiety among tourism stakeholders. “This is heartbreaking. Just when bookings were picking up and hotels were filling up, this attack will definitely lead to cancellations,” said Riyaz Ahmad, a hotel owner in Pahalgam.
Locals fear that the incident could reverse recent gains in rebuilding Kashmir’s image as a peaceful tourist destination. “Our livelihood depends on tourism. One such incident and everything goes back to zero. We appeal for proper security measures in tourist zones,” said Shabir Lone, a pony handler in the area.
“We were just starting to see a positive shift in tourism, but this attack will send a negative message to our visitors,” said Bashir Ahmad, a local tour operator. “Many of our clients have already expressed concerns over safety, and it’s going to take a lot to reassure them,” he added.
Tour operator Shakir Bhat said tourism had just begun to show signs of recovery after years of turmoil. "This attack will certainly have a detrimental impact on the upcoming tourist season, especially with families and international travellers," he said.
Meanwhile, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has expressed deep anguish over the attack on tourists in Pahalgam and strongly condemned this dastardly act of violence.The KCCI demanded that authorities investigate this gruesome attack on a fast-track basis and ensure that the culprits are swiftly brought to justice.
The chamber extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured tourists. It appealed to the authorities to provide the best possible medical treatment to all those affected.
The KCCI said it believes this targeted attack is designed to harm Kashmir's reputation and undermine the flourishing tourism industry. Such acts of violence go against the hospitable nature of Kashmiri people who have always welcomed visitors with open arms, it said.The chamber reiterated its commitment to supporting all measures that ensure the safety and security of tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley—(KNO)
Pahalgam Attack: LG Sinha says anti-terror ops launched to neutralise terrorists
The security forces have launched a massive anti-terror operation in the Pahalgam area following a terror attack in the Baisaran area today afternoon.In a post on X, LG Manoj Sinha, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that anti-terror operation has been launched to neutralise terrorists.“Entire nation is angry & blood of our forces is boiling. I want to assure the nation that perpetrators of Pahalgam attack will have to pay a very heavy price for their heinous act. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families,” he said.
Terrorists attacked a group of tourists in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam today afternoon with many casualties feared in the attack while official confirmation about death count is still awaited.Following the attack, Home Minister Amit Shah left for Srinagar to hold urgent meeting with all security agencies. He also briefed PM Modi, who is on a visit to Saudi Arabia, over phone about the incident—(KNO)
"We Stand Together": Locals, tourists in Kashmir reassure safety after Pahalgam attack
Despite a terror attack that struck the scenic tourist destination of Pahalgam on Tuesday, locals and visitors have come forward to reassure the world that Kashmir remains a place of warmth and security.The attack, which occurred around 3 PM near the Baisaran Valley—often called 'mini Switzerland' for its lush meadows—left over 20 people feared dead and several injured.
Terrorists reportedly opened fire on tourists before security forces swiftly intervened. Videos circulating online showed emergency responders rushing to aid the wounded.Meanwhile, amid the chaos, a strong message of solidarity emerged from both Kashmiris and tourists. "We Are Safe Here": Tourists Praise Local Support
A tourist from Haryana, who had planned to visit Betaab Valley, expressed gratitude to locals for their immediate assistance. "The people here have been incredibly kind. They’re helping us in every way possible. We feel safe and sound," she told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
An injured tourist from Gujarat recounted the harrowing moments of the attack but emphasized the quick response. “I had just entered the park when gunfire erupted. My arm was hit, but the locals and security forces acted fast. I’m stable now,” he said.
Nasir Hussain, a Srinagar resident, strongly condemned the violence. “Such cowardly acts will not break our spirit. We urge tourists not to panic—our homes are open to them. We will protect them as our own,” he said.Farhaan, another local, echoed the sentiment. "Tourists should not be scared. Kashmiris stand with them. We will ensure their safety and make them feel at home."
With the Srinagar-Jammu national highway temporarily closed, locals have stepped up to provide shelter, food, and reassurance to stranded visitors."The army is here, but so are the locals—helping, guiding, and keeping us calm. There’s no reason to fear," said a group of tourists—(KNO)
Pahalgam Attack: Multiple control rooms set up in Kashmir to assist tourists
Soon after the Pahalgam terror attack left many people dead and several injured, multiple emergency control rooms have been established across the Valley on Tuesday to assist tourists.In a post on X, Information & PR, J&K, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) stated that multiple number of emergency control rooms have been established in Srinagar and Anantnag to assist tourists.
“Emergency Control Room – Srinagar: 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651 Adil Fareed, ADC Srinagar – 7006058623 Helpline for the assistance on Pahalgam terror incident,” it said.It added that a 24/7 emergency help desk for tourists has been established by district administration Anantnag.“A dedicated help desk has been established to assist tourists requiring assistance or information. Contact Details: 01932222337, 7780885759, 9697982527 and 6006365245.”—(KNO)
Pahalgam Attack: Traders, MMU, Grand Mufti call for shutdown tomorrow
The religious organizations, trade bodies and political leaders here have called for a shutdown on Wednesday (April 23) to express solidarity with the people, who were attacked by the terrorists in Pahalgam area on Tuesday.Mirwaiz Kashmir Moulvi Umar Farooq in a post on X, said that Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU) in support and solidarity with the bereaved families of those killed, appeal to people of Jammu Kashmir to peacefully protest this heinous crime tomorrow by a shutdown.
“Whoever kills an innocent soul…it is as if he had slain mankind entirely”﴿مَنْ قَتَلَ نَفْسًا بِغَيْرِ نَفْسٍ…فَكَأَنَّمَا قَتَلَ النَّاسَ جَمِيعًا﴾ (Al Quran) Another day of carnage in the blood soaked history of Kashmir when visiting tourists in a most gruesome manner are mercilessly killed . Hapless people of Kashmir know the pain and grief of such tragedies for those who lost their loved ones today.
Such gruesomeness is abhorred in Islam , which is essentially a religion of peace and goodwill , and against all human ethics . The Islamic fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir through Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU) in support and solidarity with the bereaved families of those killed appeal to people of Jammu Kashmir to peacefully protest this heinous crime tomorrow by a shut down,” Mirwaiz wrote.
Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam also called for a shutdown tomorrow to express solidarity with the victims.
Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) has strongly condemned the horrific and senseless killing of innocent tourists in the Kashmir Valley.Peoples Conference (PC) President and MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone supported the shutdown call by business and travel associations and silent protests across all villages and towns.
I appeal to people of Kashmir to express their outrage in whatever form against the brutal killings in Pahalgam. I personally support a shutdown by business and travel associations and silent protests across all villages and towns,” Sajad wrote.Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President, Mehbooba Mufti in a post appealed to the people of Kashmir to unite in solidarity to support the shutdown call.
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 in Pahalgam. This isn’t just an attack on a select few—it is an attack on all of us. We stand together in grief and outrage & strongly support this shutdown to condemn the massacre of innocents,” Mehbooba wrote
.In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), KTMF has called for a Kashmir Bandh call tomorrow reflecting collective expression of grief and protest against this inhuman act. “We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and reiterate the urgent need to preserve the sanctity and safety of our land. Let this bandh be a unified voice for peace, justice and the protection of all who visit and live in the valley.”
KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said, this inhuman act has deeply shocked and pained the entire business community and we express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. “We strongly condemn the tragic killing of innocent tourists in Kashmir, an act that goes against the values of peace, hospitality and humanity that our region has always stood for,” he said.Pertinently, 28 people, mostly tourists were killed and several others were injured in a deadly attack by terrorists in Pahalgam area on Tuesday afternoon—(KNO)