Two Pune Men Killed in Terror Attack on Tourists in Pahalgam; Survivors Recall Chilling Details

Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune / Pahalgam, 23rd April 2025: A horrifying terrorist attack on tourists in the Baisaran valley of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has left the nation in shock, with over 26 people killed and several others injured. The assailants, disguised in police uniforms, targeted tourists after asking them about their religion, eyewitnesses said.

Among the victims were businessman Santosh Jagdale (54) and Kaustubh Ganbote, both residents of Pune, who were visiting Kashmir with his wife and daughter. The attack carried out in a location popularly known as ‘Mini Switzerland’ due to its scenic beauty, has raised serious concerns over the security of tourists in the region.

“They asked if we were Hindu or Muslim, then shot my father”
In a heart-wrenching account, Asawari (26), daughter of the deceased Jagdale, shared the traumatic experience with the media. “We had all gone to Mini Switzerland on horseback. It was crowded with tourists. Suddenly, men in police uniforms approached us from the upper slopes and began asking about our religion. They asked my father, ‘Are you Hindu or Muslim?’ They even made him recite the Azaan. Then they said, ‘We won’t harm the women, but you people have insulted our religion,’ and shot him,” she recounted, holding back tears.

She further revealed that her uncle was also shot, and the attack unfolded before their eyes, leaving them in a state of shock and helplessness.

Security Lapses Questioned
Asawari also questioned the lack of police presence in sensitive areas. “Where police are really needed, there’s no one. Where there’s no threat, police are posted in large numbers. This mismatch is costing lives,” she said.

She expressed concern over the wider societal impact of such communal targeting. “I have friends from all religions, including Muslim friends. Incidents like these create unnecessary divisions and pain for everyone.”

Nation Reacts to Terror in Paradise
The attack in Pahalgam—long considered a peaceful and scenic destination—has reignited fears about the targeted killing of civilians and tourists in Jammu and Kashmir. The attackers used the cover of uniforms to gain the trust of the tourists before unleashing violence.

Security forces have since launched a massive manhunt to track down the terrorists involved, and the area has been sealed off.

Growing Calls for Accountability and Protection
Political leaders and citizens across India have condemned the attack. There is growing outrage over how the perpetrators managed to carry out such an act in a heavily monitored region. Demands are rising for a thorough review of security arrangements, especially in tourist-heavy zones.