Indian security personnel guard a hospital in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, after gunmen opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam on Tuesday. CNN
Gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists in the beautiful Baisaran Valley of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. At least 26 people died and over a dozen were badly hurt. This is the worst attack on civilians in the region in years.
The shooting happened in Pahalgam, a popular hill town in Anantnag district. Tourists were resting in tents when armed men came and began firing. The attackers reportedly blamed the visitors for backing the Indian government.
One survivor, Asavari Jagdale, said her family was hiding in a tent. The gunmen entered and accused them of supporting Prime Minister Modi. Then, they shot her father and other male relatives.
Another woman said her husband was shot in the head, and seven more people around her were wounded.
Police officer V K Birdi said the location was not easy to reach. The meadow has no roads and can only be accessed on foot or horseback.
A local named Gulzar Ahmad said the shooting caused panic. People were running in every direction, not knowing where to go.
A group called The Resistance Front claimed the attack. They said they were against “outsiders” settling in the area. However, they did not give proof.
Officials said they are investigating the group’s claims. They are also arranging flights to send the bodies and injured families back home.
Among the dead were a tourist from Nepal and another person who worked in the Middle East.
The incident shocked the country and drew global attention. Leaders around the world expressed sadness and support.
India’s Prime Minister Modi strongly condemned the attack. “Those behind this act will not be spared,” he said. He ended his visit to Saudi Arabia early after meeting the crown prince.
On Tuesday evening, many locals came together to protest. They held candles and signs reading “Stop terrorism.” Some also demanded the resignation of India’s Home Minister.
The Indian Army launched a massive search for the attackers. Home Minister Amit Shah flew to Kashmir and held a top-level meeting with police and army leaders.
All private schools in Jammu and Kashmir stayed shut the next day.
Pakistan’s government also sent condolences. But India’s ruling party blamed Pakistan for supporting such violence. A party spokesperson said Pakistan is trying to disturb the growing peace in the area.
Pakistan’s defense minister denied any link to the attack. “We don’t support terrorism anywhere,” he said.
Kashmir has long been at the center of conflict between India and Pakistan. Both countries claim the region in full. Fighting has continued for decades, with tens of thousands killed.
Tourism is one of the few joys in the area. Every year, many people visit during the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. Attacks during such times are rare but not new.
In June, another tourist bus came under fire and fell into a gorge. That incident killed nine people and injured over 30.
