Pahalgam Attack: In one of the most heartbreaking terror attacks in recent memory, 26 innocent lives were lost when heavily armed terrorists opened fire at tourists enjoying a peaceful afternoon at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday. Among those killed was a local pony ride operator, while the rest were tourists who had come to enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley.
The attackers, reportedly five to six in number, emerged suddenly from a dense pine forest next to the meadow. Carrying rifles and possibly wearing bodycams to record the horror, they walked calmly towards crowded spots where families were relaxing. Children were playing, some jumping on trampolines, while others were relishing snacks like bhelpuri — completely unaware of the danger approaching them.
The first shots rang out at around 1:50 PM. Survivors shared horrifying accounts of how the terrorists asked their religion, reportedly tested them on Islamic verses, and then shot them point-blank. Many of the victims were killed by headshots. This terrifying act unfolded in just ten minutes, but it left behind a lifetime of trauma.
Sadly, help took time to reach. The only way to Baisaran meadow is by trekking or riding ponies through difficult terrain — narrow forest trails, muddy patches, and streams. It takes nearly an hour to get there. Emergency teams couldn’t reach the site until after 3 PM, almost an hour after the killings. Several survivors mentioned that some victims were still breathing and could’ve been saved with timely medical help.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Baisaran yesterday to assess the situation. His visit followed widespread national outrage and grief. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was visiting Saudi Arabia at the time, immediately cut short his trip and returned to New Delhi to deal with the aftermath. He vowed justice for the victims, saying, “Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice… they will not be spared.”
Security agencies have indicated that the attack had Pakistan’s backing, just like many other terror acts seen in the past. The timing was especially sensitive — it happened during the India visit of US Vice President JD Vance.
India has already responded with strict diplomatic and strategic measures. The Indus Water Treaty, a decades-old agreement between the two countries, has been suspended. The Attari border crossing has been closed. Pakistani nationals will no longer get visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, and several defence officials from Pakistan’s High Commission in India have been declared persona non grata. The strength of the High Commission will also be reduced by May 1.
This attack is one of the most brutal the Valley has seen since the 2019 Pulwama terror strike. The loss of innocent lives, including children, is a wound that will take time to heal. India now stands united in grief and determination, with a clear message: such cruelty will not be tolerated, and justice will be delivered.
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