Terror Attack in Kashmir (Pahalgam)—A Detailed, Fact-Based Account
📰 Introduction
On April 22, 2025, an idyllic location in Kashmir’s Baisaran meadows, just outside Pahalgam, witnessed a devastating terrorist strike. Armed militants dressed as soldiers launched a surprise assault, killing 26 civilians and injuring over a dozen. The attack took place in broad daylight, turning a scenic tourist destination into a site of horror.
It was one of the most lethal attacks against civilians in Kashmir in recent memory, reminiscent of the tragic Pulwama incident of 2019. Let’s dive into a complete breakdown of what transpired.
⏱️ Incident Timeline
At around 2:45 PM, seven individuals dressed in Indian military uniforms appeared from a wooded trail leading into Baisaran Valley, frequented by tourists for its panoramic views. They began firing automatic weapons at random, creating panic and bloodshed within moments.
🔫 Attack Strategy and Weapons
The assailants were equipped with high-powered automatic rifles, including M4 carbines and AK-47s. Disguised as Indian soldiers, they were able to approach without suspicion, enabling them to get close to their targets.
The attackers used religious profiling to single out non-Muslim tourists. Reports suggest they asked individuals to recite Islamic prayers and performed physical inspections to identify their faith before executing them—a deeply disturbing act of hate-fueled violence.
🧍♂️ Victim Overview
The victims hailed from various Indian states:
- Maharashtra saw the highest toll with six casualties.
- Gujarat and Karnataka each lost three citizens.
- Among the deceased was Lt. Vinay Narwal, a newly married Navy officer from Haryana.
- Three cousins from Mumbai, on a vacation together, tragically perished side by side.
- Manjunath Rao, a real estate agent from Karnataka, was gunned down while buying snacks for his child.
- Sudip Neupane, a tourist from Nepal, was also among the deceased.
👁️ What Survivors Say
Witnesses and survivors have shared accounts filled with terror and trauma. One woman said, “They asked us to recite religious texts. Those who couldn’t were shot on the spot.” Others described trying to hide in the underbrush, hearing bullets whizzing by as they clutched loved ones.
🎯 Purpose Behind the Attack
The pattern clearly indicates religiously targeted violence. The terrorists spared Muslim civilians after verifying identities through religious and physical checks. Such actions point to a calculated hate crime, aligned with previous ideologies promoted by groups like The Resistance Front (TRF).
🕵️ Group Behind the Operation
The Resistance Front (TRF)
The group, operating under the umbrella of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility. TRF has often been seen as a rebranded outfit for LeT to bypass global sanctions.
The Mastermind—Saifullah Kasuri
Indian intelligence has traced the orchestration of the attack to Saifullah Kasuri, an LeT commander based in Peshawar, Pakistan. He reportedly coordinated the plot remotely, using encrypted communications with militants inside India.
🚨 Security Forces’ Response
Emergency services, police units, and army patrols reached the scene within 15 minutes. Helicopters airlifted the injured to nearby hospitals in Anantnag and Srinagar. The area was sealed off, and a massive combing operation began immediately, including drones and sniffer dogs.
A ₹20 lakh reward has been announced for any actionable leads on the attackers.
🇮🇳 Government’s Immediate Measures
Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancelled his foreign engagement and returned to Delhi to handle the crisis. Home Minister Amit Shah and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh visited Kashmir, promising decisive retaliation and vowing justice for the victims.
🌐 Diplomatic Repercussions
India’s Strategic Countermeasures:
- Indus Waters Treaty suspended
- Border trade at Attari-Wagah halted
- Visa-free travel for SAARC nations revoked
- Pakistani diplomats reduced in New Delhi
- Diplomatic envoys from India recalled from Islamabad
These aggressive steps signal India’s zero-tolerance policy for state-sponsored terrorism.
🌍 Global Reactions
The international community swiftly condemned the attack:
- UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called it “inhuman and tragic.”
- The U.S., France, and Russia offered condolences and support.
- Nepal’s prime minister described it as “a stain on humanity.”
🚫 Tourism Takes a Hit
Kashmir, just recovering post-COVID, is again seeing tourist cancellations. Hotels in Pahalgam and Gulmarg report a sharp decline in bookings. Local tourism-dependent workers fear financial ruin.
🛡️ Strengthening Kashmir’s Security
The army, CRPF, and local police have ramped up patrols. Surveillance cameras are being installed in more remote areas. Intelligence agencies are using cyber tools to track communications tied to cross-border terrorism.
📚 A Recurring Tragedy
Kashmir has sadly seen similar incidents:
- 2000: Nuwan Base Camp killings
- 2002: Chandanwari tourist attack
- 2021–2024: TRF-led minority killings
The target is often non-Muslim civilians, tourists, or pilgrims, reflecting an ongoing strategy to destabilize the region.
🔮 What Lies Ahead
India now faces a dual challenge—ensuring security without harming civilian freedoms and maintaining Kashmir’s tourism-based economy.
The response to this attack may shape anti-terror policy, global alliances, and regional peace efforts in the years to come.
🧾 Conclusion
The Pahalgam incident was not a random act—it was a meticulously planned massacre, designed to sow fear, hate, and division. As India prepares its response, the world waits to see how it balances justice, diplomacy, and peace-building.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Which group claimed responsibility?
A: The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be backed by Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Q2: How did terrorists identify their victims?
A: They used religious tests like Kalma recitation and physical inspection.
Q3: What was the government’s response?
A: Emergency actions were taken, including suspending treaties and increasing security.
Q4: How will this impact tourism in Kashmir?
A: There has been a wave of cancellations, with economic setbacks expected.
Q5: Is the area now safe for travel?
A: Heavy security remains in place, and tourist movements are being closely monitored.