The terrorist attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, has sent shockwaves across the nation and beyond. The attack targeted a group of tourists in what appears to be a calculated attempt to destabilize the region’s burgeoning tourism industry, which has been a symbol of normalcy in the Valley. Below is a detailed overview of the incident based on available information
Casualties and Injuries casualties: Reports indicate that 26 to 27 people were killed in the attack. Among the victims were:Two foreign nationals (one from Nepal and one from the UAE).Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, an Indian Navy officer.An Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer.A local tour operator.Several other tourists, predominantly Hindu, as the attackers reportedly asked victims about their names and religion before opening fire.Injuries: Between 10 to 12 people were injured, with some in critical condition. They have been shifted to nearby hospitals, including the Government Medical College in Anantnag and other facilities in Srinagar.Official Confirmation: While these numbers are circulating in media and social media reports, authorities have not yet released a final, verified count of casualties. The Jammu and Kashmir Police and other agencies are still assessing the situation.
Response from Authorities
Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Shah, who was en route to Srinagar, is expected to hold high-level security meetings with top officials, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army, and intelligence agencies. His visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the central government’s intent to respond decisively.Chief Minister Omar Abdullah: Abdullah’s immediate departure for Pahalgam from his residence in Srinagar signals the state government’s hands-on approach to managing the crisis. He is likely to visit the attack site, meet with victims’ families, and coordinate with security forces.Prime Minister Narendra Modi: PM Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia and is returning to India to address the crisis. He has spoken with Amit Shah, directing him to take all necessary measures to ensure justice and security. Modi condemned the attack, describing it as a “heinous act” and assuring the nation that those responsible would face severe consequences.
Security Operations
A massive cordon-and-search operation has been launched in the Baisaran area, involving:Indian Army’s Victor Force and Special Forces.Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG).Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).Helicopters are being used for aerial surveillance to track down the perpetrators, who are believed to have fled into the dense forests of the region.Intelligence inputs suggest that the attackers, numbering three to four, were heavily armed and had conducted reconnaissance of tourist spots in April 2025, indicating a well-planned operation.PerpetratorsThe terrorist outfit The Resistance Front (TRF), a splinter group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack. TRF has been increasingly active in Jammu and Kashmir, targeting civilians and security forces to disrupt peace in the region.The attackers reportedly singled out Hindu tourists, asking for their names and religion before firing, which points to a communal angle aimed at creating fear and division.Security agencies suspect the involvement of foreign mercenaries, possibly trained in Pakistan, and are investigating cross-border connections.
International and Domestic Reactions
International Condemnation: The United States, UAE, and other countries have strongly condemned the attack. The UAE expressed solidarity with India, particularly given the loss of one of its citizens. Nepal also mourned the death of its national and called for swift justice.Domestic Outrage: Political leaders across party lines, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, have condemned the attack. Gandhi described it as a “cowardly act” and urged unity in the face of terrorism. Various civil society groups and tourism associations have expressed concern over the impact on Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry.Tourism Industry: The attack has raised fears of a setback to the region’s tourism, which saw record footfalls in 2024 and early 2025. Pahalgam, known as the “Valley of Shepherds,” is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.Context and ImplicationsTargeting
Tourism: Jammu and Kashmir has seen a tourism boom in recent years, with millions visiting the region annually. This attack appears to be a deliberate attempt to sabotage the industry, which is a lifeline for the local economy and a sign of returning normalcy post the 2019 abrogation of Article 370.Security Challenges: The attack highlights the persistent threat of terrorism in the region, despite significant security measures. It also underscores the need for enhanced intelligence and preventive mechanisms, especially in tourist-heavy areas.Political Ramifications: With both the central and state governments taking swift action, the incident is likely to lead to a broader crackdown on terrorist networks. However, it may also fuel debates on security policies and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir.Current StatusThe situation in Pahalgam remains tense, with security forces intensifying their operations to apprehend the attackers.Tourists in the area are being evacuated or advised to stay indoors, and travel advisories may be issued for the region.Hospitals in Anantnag and Srinagar are on high alert, with additional medical staff deployed to treat the injured.The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is likely to take over the probe, given the attack’s scale and its implications for national security.NoteThe casualty figures and specific details are based on reports from news outlets and social media posts on X, but discrepancies exist. For instance, some sources report 26 deaths, while others mention 27. Official confirmation from the Jammu and Kashmir government or the Ministry of Home Affairs is awaited for precise numbers. The evolving nature of the situation means that new developments may emerge soon.
