Horror in Paradise: Terror Attack Kills 20+ Tourists in Kashmir’s Pahalgam
Pahalgam, Kashmir – One of India’s most picturesque tourist destinations became the scene of a horrific terror attack on Tuesday, as gunmen opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam, leaving at least 24 dead and dozens wounded in what officials are calling the worst civilian-targeted violence in Kashmir in recent years.
Attack Details: What Happened in Pahalgam?
- Location: Baisaran meadows, 5km from Pahalgam town center
- Time: Tuesday afternoon, April 22, 2025
- Method: Eyewitnesses report gunmen emerging from nearby forests, targeting male tourists specifically by asking and confirming their Hindu Names
- Casualties: 20 confirmed dead, with many critically injured (death toll may rise)
Immediate Aftermath
- PM Modi cut short his Saudi Arabia visit, convening emergency security meetings
- NIA teams deployed to Srinagar for investigation
- Global condemnation from US, UK, UN and EU leaders
- Local shutdown: Protests and closed businesses across Kashmir valley
Why This Pahalgam Attack Shocks Experts
Unlike typical Kashmir insurgent activities, this attack:
✔ Marked rare targeting of tourists
✔ Occurred during peak travel season
✔ Followed months of relative calm in the region
“An attack of this scale on civilians hasn’t been seen since the 2017 Amarnath Yatra incident,” noted security analyst Aarti Tikoo.
Ongoing Developments
- Manhunt: Security forces conducting combing operations in nearby forests
- Political fallout: Opposition leaders demanding accountability
- Travel advisory: Tourists advised to avoid immediate travel to South Kashmir
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