Pahalgam Terror Attack: Tragedy in Kashmir’s Tourist Paradise Leaves 26 Dead

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir – April 22, 2025:
In a devastating act of terror, gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists in the scenic Baisaran valley of Pahalgam, Anantnag district, leaving 26 people dead, including two foreign nationals, and injuring over 20 others. This brutal Pahalgam terror attack has sent shockwaves across India and the global community.

What Happened in Pahalgam?

The terror attack occurred around 2:30 pm in the upper meadows of Baisaran valley, a popular tourist destination in Kashmir known for its lush green meadows, pine forests, and panoramic Himalayan views. Armed militants, allegedly affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, ambushed unsuspecting tourists, firing indiscriminately.

Initial reports suggest the assailants may have infiltrated from Kishtwar via Kokernag in South Kashmir. Among the deceased were women, elderly citizens, two foreigners, a Navy official, and Intelligence Bureau officer Manish Ranjan, who was vacationing with his family. His wife and two children survived the massacre.

Condolences and Condemnation

Jaipur Explore express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this senseless violence. The pain and grief of losing loved ones in such a horrific manner are unimaginable. May the departed souls rest in peace, and may the injured recover swiftly.

We strongly condemn this cowardly terrorist attack that targeted innocent civilians in one of Kashmir’s most peaceful and picturesque locations. Such brutal acts of terror have no place in any civilized society and must be met with resolute action and justice.

Nation and World Stand United

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the Pahalgam terror incident, assuring the nation that the attackers would be punished. The international community, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and US Vice President JD Vance (who is currently visiting India), also condemned the attack and extended their condolences to the victims’ families.

Prominent Bollywood actors like Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, and Anupam Kher voiced their grief and anger on social media, demanding immediate and firm action against terrorism in Kashmir.

Local Response: Candle March for Peace in Pahalgam

In a heartfelt tribute, locals in Pahalgam organized a candlelight march on the evening of April 22, 2025, to honor the victims. Hundreds of residents, shopkeepers, students, and tourism workers gathered in silence, holding candles and placards reading “Terrorism Has No Religion” and “Pahalgam Prays for Peace.” The peaceful protest reflected the solidarity of the local Kashmiri community with the victims and sent a strong message against violence.

Heightened Security and Nationwide Alert

Following the Pahalgam attack, security has been tightened across major cities, especially in Delhi. Tourist hotspots and pilgrimage routes are under strict surveillance as authorities prepare for the upcoming summer and Amarnath Yatra season. Intelligence agencies are on high alert to prevent further incidents.

Comparisons to Past Attacks

The Pahalgam attack is being called one of the deadliest terrorist strikes in Jammu and Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama attack, which killed 40 CRPF personnel. Security experts are urging a strategic overhaul of safety measures in Kashmir’s tourist zones.