(28 tourists were killed in a brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir on April 22, 2025. The Resistance Front has claimed responsibility.)

Pahalgam Terror Attack: 28 Civilians Killed in Kashmir’s Bloodiest Assault in Years

In a tragic and chilling act of terror, 28 innocent civilians—most of them tourists—were brutally killed in a premeditated ambush in the serene town of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025. The attack, which unfolded near the scenic Baisaran meadows, has shaken the nation to its core. The Resistance Front (TRF), a suspected proxy group of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

What Happened: A Timeline of the Terror

Around 2:50 PM IST, a group of 4-6 terrorists disguised in Indian Army uniforms emerged from the forested areas surrounding Baisaran. Eyewitnesses reported that the militants began indiscriminately firing upon tourists who were sightseeing and relaxing. Survivors recounted how the attackers asked for religious identification before opening fire—indicating a deeply communal and calculated intent.

The gunfire lasted for nearly 20 minutes, after which the assailants disappeared into the dense woods, evading immediate capture.

The Human Toll: Victims and Casualties

• Killed: 28 civilians
• Injured: Over 20, many critically
• Victim Demographics:
  • 24 Indian tourists from states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu
  • 2 local Kashmiri residents
  • 2 foreign nationals (one from Nepal, another from UAE)
  • A 26-year-old Naval officer and an Intelligence Bureau official

This horrific incident has left families shattered and the tourism industry in Kashmir in a state of panic.

Who Claimed Responsibility?

The Resistance Front (TRF) started encrypted social channels, claiming responsibility for the attack. The group blamed the Indian government for “demographic reengineering” in the region and called the assault a retaliatory act. Experts believe TRF operates as a front for Lashkar-e-Taiba, using such incidents to inflame communal tensions.

Political Response and Global Reactions

National Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, visibly disturbed, condemned the massacre in the strongest terms. “This is not just an attack on civilians but on the conscience of humanity,” he stated. Modi cut short an ongoing international diplomatic tour to convene a high-level emergency meeting.

Home Minister Amit Shah rushed to Srinagar and met with officials from the Army, CRPF, and intelligence services. Enhanced security protocols have been initiated across Jammu and Kashmir.

International Condemnation

• USA: President Donald Trump denounced the attack, reaffirming India’s right to self-defense.
• Russia: President Vladimir Putin called it “an unforgivable and barbaric act.”
• UAE and Italy: Issued strong condemnations and expressed sorrow over the loss of innocent lives.

Related: Stay informed with our India News Section.

The Fallout: Tourism and Local Economy Hit Hard

Pahalgam, often called the ‘Valley of Shepherds,’ is a popular tourist destination and a vital route for the Amarnath Yatra. In the wake of the attack, panic has set in among local businesses, with hotel cancellations and mass tourist departures reported across the region.

Security analysts predict that without swift countermeasures, this attack could trigger more violence and paralyze the region’s already fragile economy.

Security Measures and Investigation

The Indian Army and J&K Police have launched a massive search operation across Anantnag district. Drones, sniffer dogs, and satellite surveillance are being used to track the perpetrators.

Checkpoints have been strengthened, and high-alert status has been declared in tourist-heavy zones. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the case to probe deeper connections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why was Pahalgam targeted?

A1: Analysts believe the attack aimed to disrupt communal harmony and derail tourism in Kashmir, a sector slowly recovering post-pandemic.

Q2: Who is the TRF?

A2: The Resistance Front is a suspected front of Lashkar-e-Taiba, operating under a new name to bypass international scrutiny.

Q3: How is the government responding?

A3: Emergency security reviews, deployment of special forces, and diplomatic efforts to counter terror financing are underway.

Q4: Will this affect the Amarnath Yatra?

A4: Authorities are reevaluating security protocols for upcoming pilgrimages. No cancellations yet, but increased vigilance is expected.

Q5: Can tourists still visit Kashmir?

A5: Tourism has not been banned, but travelers are advised to follow official guidelines and remain cautious.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, heightened surveillance and counter-insurgency operations are being conducted across South Kashmir(Pahalgam) in the aftermath of the attack.

Support and Solidarity

As the nation mourns, it’s time for unity. Support verified relief efforts, offer condolences, and demand accountability. Share this report to spread awareness and counter misinformation.

Feature Image ALT Text: Security forces investigate the terror site in Pahalgam, Kashmir after the April 2025 attack.

Tags: Pahalgam Terror Attack, Kashmir Conflict, TRF Militant Group, April 2025 Violence, Indian Army Response, J&K Tourism Crisis, Modi Security Review, Lashkar Proxy.

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