Srinagar, April 23, 2025: A peaceful afternoon in the serene meadows of Baisaran, often dubbed “Mini Switzerland”, turned into a nightmare on Tuesday as six heavily armed terrorists launched a surprise attack, killing 28 people, most of them tourists, and leaving several others injured. The horrifying attack has shaken the nation, prompting high-level investigations and a stern response from the central government.
Gunmen in Uniforms, Tourists Targeted in Broad Daylight
The attack took place around 2:30 PM near Pahalgam in South Kashmir, a region known for its breathtaking beauty and tourism appeal. Eyewitnesses claim the militants, disguised in army uniforms, infiltrated the area and opened indiscriminate fire on a group of tourists. Chaos followed as people ran for their lives through the forested terrain.
Initial reports suggest the attack was meticulously planned, with the objective of killing both domestic and foreign tourists.
Sketches of Suspects Released, Identities Revealed
In a swift development, investigative agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA), have released sketches of three suspects believed to be involved in the heinous act. The attackers have been identified as Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha — two of whom are reportedly locals, while the third is believed to be foreign-trained.
The sketches were created based on inputs from eyewitnesses and local sources. Intelligence sources have also claimed that the attackers were in constant communication with handlers in Muzaffarabad and Karachi, suggesting a cross-border terror link.
NIA Takes Over Probe, Team Reaches Srinagar
A high-level team from the NIA has already landed in Srinagar and begun coordinating with Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, and National Rifles units, which have launched an intensive search operation in the surrounding forests. A photograph also emerged showing a group of terrorists armed with automatic weapons, adding to the growing body of digital evidence.
The central government is treating the incident as a major national security threat, and all angles — including foreign involvement and local support — are being closely investigated.
Home Minister Amit Shah Visits Site, Pays Tributes
Following the incident, Union Home Minister Amit Shah flew into Jammu and Kashmir, visiting both Srinagar and the Pahalgam attack site. He paid tribute to the victims and met with local security officials to take stock of the situation.
In a strongly worded statement on X (formerly Twitter), Shah said:
“With a heavy heart, I pay my respects to those who lost their lives in the cowardly Pahalgam terror attack. India will not bow to terror. The perpetrators will not be spared.”
His visit is seen as both a morale booster for the security forces and a message to the nation that terrorism will be dealt with an iron hand.
Compensation Announced by Jammu & Kashmir Government
In the wake of the attack, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced ex-gratia compensation of ₹10 lakh to the families of each deceased victim. Speaking to the media, he said:
“No amount of money can replace the lives lost, but this is a small effort to support the grieving families.”
Additionally, the government will provide ₹2 lakh to those seriously injured and ₹1 lakh to those with minor injuries.
Widespread Condemnation and Security Overhaul
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from across the political spectrum and civil society. Security has been heightened across Kashmir, particularly in tourist hotspots and transit routes. Special instructions have been issued to monitor unverified visitors, and extra vigilance is being maintained at entry points.
A Setback to Tourism and Peace Process
This incident marks one of the deadliest attacks on tourists in Kashmir in recent years, potentially derailing the valley’s recovering tourism industry. It also throws a shadow over ongoing peace efforts in the region.
While authorities continue the search for the remaining attackers, the Pahalgam tragedy has served as a grim reminder that terrorist elements remain active and determined to disturb peace in Kashmir.
