Photo Credit: Getty Images
In a devastating escalation of violence in Kashmir, 26 tourists were killed and 17 injured in a militant attack in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam on April 22, 2025. The assailants, emerging from nearby forests, opened fire on the unsuspecting visitors, marking the deadliest assault on civilians in the region in recent years .
The Resistance Front (TRF), a group linked to the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. They alleged the victims were affiliated with Indian security agencies and cited opposition to the settlement of over 85,000 "outsiders" in the region since the revocation of Kashmir's special status in 2019 .Indian authorities have launched a massive manhunt, deploying hundreds of security personnel to the area. Sketches of three suspects—Asif
Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha—have been released. Intelligence sources identified Saifullah Kasuri, a senior Lashkar-e-Taiba commander, as the mastermind behind the attack.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia to address the crisis. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh vowed a "loud and clear response," emphasizing India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. Home Minister Amit Shah visited the attack site and met with victims' families, underscoring the government's commitment to justice.
The attack has triggered a mass exodus of tourists from the region. Airlines have added flights and waived cancellation fees to accommodate the sudden surge in departures . Local businesses and schools shut down in protest, with residents expressing shame and solidarity with the victims .
International condemnation has been swift. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, during a visit to India, expressed solidarity, stating, "The United States stands strong with India against terrorism." Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the events as "deeply saddening"
This incident underscores the persistent volatility in Kashmir, despite recent efforts to promote tourism and development. It highlights the challenges India faces in ensuring security and stability in the region amid ongoing threats from militant groups.
