Kashmir: Terrorists Open Fire on Tourists in Pahalgam; One Killed, 12 Injured
Pahalgam (Jammu and Kashmir), 22nd April 2025: In a shocking act of terror, gunmen opened fire on tourists in the scenic Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam on Tuesday afternoon, killing one person and injuring several others.
According to officials, the terrorists approached a group of tourists, asked one of them his name and religion, and then shot him in the head at point-blank range. The assailants fled the scene while firing indiscriminately. One tourist succumbed to his injuries on the spot. Initial reports suggest that eight people were injured, including some locals. However, news agency PTI has reported the number of injured as 12.
Security forces swiftly cordoned off the area and launched a massive search operation, with aerial surveillance being carried out using helicopters. All the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, where they are undergoing treatment.
PM Modi, Amit Shah React; Emergency Meeting Convened
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently in Saudi Arabia, was briefed about the attack. He spoke to Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the phone and directed him to monitor the situation closely. Shah, in response, has called for an emergency meeting in Delhi.
Just weeks earlier, from April 6 to 8, Shah had visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the security situation ahead of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke with Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi to assess the latest developments in the region.
Previous Attacks Raise Security Concerns
The attack has revived memories of a similar incident on May 18, 2024, when terrorists opened fire on a tourist couple from Rajasthan near Pahalgam. On the same night, BJP leader Aijaz Ahmed Sheikh was shot dead in Shopian. Both attacks occurred during the Lok Sabha elections—the first held in the region after the abrogation of Article 370.
Amarnath Yatra Security Now Under Scrutiny
The Pahalgam route, where Tuesday’s attack occurred, is one of the key pathways for the annual Amarnath Yatra, which begins on July 3 and continues until August 9. With thousands of pilgrims expected to pass through this route, the attack has raised serious concerns about safety and preparedness.
The pilgrimage starts from the Pahalgam base camp and involves a multi-day trek through Chandanwadi, Pissu Top, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, finally reaching the Amarnath cave shrine.
Political Leaders Condemn Attack
Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, strongly condemned the attack. “This brutal assault on tourists is deeply disturbing. Kashmir has always been known for its warmth towards visitors. Such acts of violence must be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice. Ensuring tourist safety must be a top priority.”
Omar Abdullah, current Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, also expressed grief and anger. “I am shocked and saddened. Targeting innocent tourists is a cowardly and inhuman act. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I am returning to Srinagar immediately to review the situation.”
Investigation Underway
While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far, security agencies are investigating all angles. Intelligence inputs and surveillance data are being analyzed to trace the attackers. Security has been heightened in and around all tourist areas of south Kashmir.
