Kashmiri Horseman Syed Hussain Shah Killed While Resisting Terrorists in Pahalgam Attack

Srinagar, 23rd April 2025: In a chilling turn of events in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, a brutal terror attack on tourists turned tragic when local horseman Syed Hussain Shah lost his life while trying to protect them on Tuesday. Shah, a resident of Ashmuqam near Pahalgam, was hailed as a hero for confronting the terrorists and attempting to save the lives of innocent tourists.
According to eyewitnesses, terrorists targeted visitors on Tuesday by first asking about their religion before opening fire. Syed Hussain Shah, who was accompanying tourists on horseback as part of his daily work, reportedly tried to stop the attackers. He pleaded with them, saying the tourists were innocent and guests of Kashmiris, regardless of their faith.
When his words failed to deter the gunmen, Shah physically confronted one of them and attempted to snatch his rifle. In the scuffle, he was shot and seriously injured. He later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
His death has stirred strong emotions across Kashmir. Locals say his actions prevented a larger massacre. “If Syed Hussain had not intervened, the death toll would have been much higher. His bravery saved many lives,” said Bilal, a close friend.
Shah’s mother told media that he was the only bread earner for the family.
Shah’s body was returned to his family late Tuesday evening after a post-mortem. He was laid to rest the same night in his hometown.
The attack has once again sparked outrage and grief across Jammu and Kashmir, raising questions about the safety of tourists in the region. Calls for stronger security measures and swift justice have intensified.