In a deadly terrorist attack on Tuesday, at least 28 tourists were killed in Indian-administered Kashmir, with the assailants specifically targeting Hindus. The assault on the popular resort town of Pahalgam has been described as one of the most devastating attacks on civilians in recent years, sending shockwaves across the nation.
Prime Minister Modi Pledges Strong Response
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, calling it a “heinous act” and vowing that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. “This cowardly act will not go unpunished,” Modi said in a statement. His words echoed across the political spectrum, as India’s Interior Minister Amit Shah announced plans to visit the site of the attack, pledging the harshest consequences for those responsible.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also expressed her outrage, describing the attack as a “cowardly assault on innocent tourists.”
Shock and Devastation in Pahalgam
The attack took place in Pahalgam, a town that lies 90 kilometers from Srinagar, a key city in Kashmir. Witnesses described horrific scenes of carnage, with several bodies lying in the street, some victims appearing lifeless. One tour guide, Waheed, arrived on horseback after hearing gunfire and helped carry the wounded to safety.
Medics in the nearby town of Anantnag confirmed receiving injured tourists, with several suffering from gunshot wounds. “The attack has left us in shock, and the casualty count continues to rise,” said a medical official.
Growing Concern Amid Kashmir’s Tourism Revival
The attack occurred in a region that had been experiencing a resurgence in tourism in recent years, with 3.5 million visitors recorded in 2024. This surge in tourism was partly attributed to efforts by the Indian government to promote Kashmir as a safe destination following the revocation of the region’s limited autonomy in 2019.
Despite ongoing security challenges, the region’s picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage have drawn both domestic and international tourists. In 2023, India hosted a G20 tourism meeting in Srinagar, hoping to showcase the region as a symbol of “normalcy and peace” after years of conflict.
This deadly attack, however, highlights the ongoing tensions in Kashmir and the persistent security risks faced by both locals and visitors. It remains to be seen how this will impact the region’s tourism sector in the coming months.
