Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: 28 Tourists Killed in Kashmir's Deadliest Civilian Massacre in Decades​

On April 22, 2025, militants opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow, killing 28 and injuring over 20. The Resistance Front claimed responsibility, citing opposition to demographic changes in

man in blue jacket walking with brown short coated dog on street during daytime
man in blue jacket walking with brown short coated dog on street during daytime

🕯️ Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: A Tragic Day in Kashmir's History

On April 22, 2025, the serene landscapes of Pahalgam were marred by a horrific act of violence. Militants affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF) launched a brutal attack on tourists in Baisaran meadow, resulting in the deaths of 28 individuals and injuring over 20 others. This incident stands as the deadliest civilian massacre in the region since the early 2000s. ​

📍 The Attack: What Happened?

Around 2:50 PM local time, four to six armed militants, dressed in military-style uniforms, emerged from the surrounding forests of Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam. They indiscriminately opened fire on a group of tourists, predominantly Hindus, who were enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants singled out non-Muslim individuals, demanding they recite Islamic verses and checking for circumcision to identify their religion. Those who couldn't comply were executed at close range. ​

Survivors recounted harrowing experiences, with one woman recalling how an attacker spared her, instructing her to "go tell this to Modi," referring to India's Prime Minister. Emergency services swiftly responded, transporting the injured to nearby medical facilities, with some being airlifted to Srinagar for advanced treatment. ​

🕵️ Perpetrators and Motive

The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack. In their statement, TRF expressed opposition to the alleged demographic changes in Kashmir, citing the settlement of over 85,000 outsiders following the revocation of the region's special status in 2019. ​

Indian officials believe the attackers included both local and foreign militants, with suspicions pointing towards two individuals from Pakistan and two from Indian-administered Kashmir. ​

🇮🇳 Government Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, cutting short his visit to Saudi Arabia to address the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah traveled to Srinagar to oversee the security response, while Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman returned from her international engagements. Security forces launched extensive search operations, detaining approximately 100 individuals suspected of aiding the attackers. ​Wikipedia

The government has also established helplines to assist affected families and is coordinating with airlines to facilitate the evacuation of tourists from the region. ​

🌐 International Condemnation

The global community has expressed outrage over the attack. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the violence, emphasizing that "attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances." ​

Leaders from various countries, including the United States, have extended their condolences and support to India during this challenging time. ​

🧳 Impact on Tourism and Local Sentiment

The attack has dealt a significant blow to Kashmir's tourism industry, which had been witnessing a resurgence in recent years. Many tourists have canceled their plans, and those present in the region are being evacuated. Local businesses, heavily reliant on tourism, fear prolonged economic repercussions. ​

Residents have expressed grief and anger, with many participating in protests condemning the violence and demanding enhanced security measures. ​

📅 Looking Ahead

As investigations continue and security operations intensify, the focus remains on restoring peace and ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors. The Pahalgam attack serves as a grim reminder of the challenges that persist in the region and underscores the need for sustained efforts towards lasting peace.​