Terror Strikes Pahalgam: 12 Tourists Injured, PM Modi Speaks to Shah
At least 12 tourists sustained injuries in a terrorist attack at the popular tourist spot Baisaran in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Gunfire erupted at the location, prompting an immediate response from security forces, according to reports by PTI.
Witnesses stated that unidentified gunmen opened fire at close range, causing serious injuries. “My husband suffered a bullet injury to his head, and seven others around us were also hurt,” a female survivor reported via phone to PTI. Due to limited accessibility reachable only by foot or horseback—a helicopter was deployed to evacuate the wounded. Additionally, local residents assisted by transporting some victims downhill using ponies.
PM Modi speaks to Amit Shah
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a two-day diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia, contacted Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss the situation, urging immediate and appropriate actions. Modi also directed Shah to visit the attack site personally.
Former CM Mehbooba Mufti says 5 killed
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti condemned the violent incident, asserting that at least five fatalities occurred in the attack. Mufti demanded an extensive inquiry into security breaches, stating, “Historically, Kashmir has warmly welcomed tourists. Such incidents are deeply troubling and require thorough investigation to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice. Protecting visitors must remain a top priority.”
CM Abdullah, BJP leader react to Pahalgam militant attack
Current Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah strongly condemned the attack, expressing his shock and grief, and announced his immediate return to Srinagar. Abdullah described the assailants as “inhuman” and conveyed his deepest condolences to the victims’ families.
BJP leader Ravinder Raina attributed the attack to “Pakistani terrorists,” condemning their actions as cowardly for targeting innocent visitors. Speaking to media in Nowshera, Raina emphasized that these attackers avoid confronting Indian security forces directly.
This incident echoes a previous attack last year when terrorists killed a doctor and six construction workers at a work site in Ganderbal district. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had similarly condemned that attack as cowardly and reprehensible.