Gunmen attacked a popular resort in Indian-controlled Kashmir on Tuesday, killing at least 26 tourists in a shocking incident that has raised alarms about the safety of visitors in the region. This attack, described by police as a "terror attack," is seen as a significant escalation in violence, particularly because tourists have generally been safe in Kashmir.
According to police reports, four armed militants opened fire on a group of tourists in Baisaran meadow, a scenic area near the resort town of Pahalgam. Many of the victims were Indian nationals, and several others were seriously injured in the attack. Police collected at least 24 bodies from the site, with two additional fatalities occurring during medical transport.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation. Omar Abdullah, the top elected official in the region, stated that this incident is unprecedented in its scale against civilians in recent years. India’s Home Minister Amit Shah promised severe consequences for the perpetrators, emphasizing a strong response from the government. He arrived in Srinagar to meet with security officials shortly after the attack.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was visiting Saudi Arabia at the time, cut his trip short to return to New Delhi in light of the tragedy. The international community also reacted, with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump expressing their condolences and condemning the violence. Vance referred to the attack as "devastating," while Trump reiterated U.S. support for India in combating terrorism.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious leader in Kashmir, condemned the attack as cowardly, stating that such violence is against the welcoming spirit of the region. The gunfire coincided with increased tensions as India ramps up counterinsurgency operations in Kashmir, which has a long history of conflict between Indian forces and militants seeking independence or union with Pakistan.
Kashmir has seen a rise in violence since New Delhi revoked the region’s semi-autonomy in 2019. Despite the ongoing conflict, tourism had been thriving, with many visiting for the breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. However, this tragic event has raised serious concerns about the safety of tourists in the area.
The meadow where the attack occurred is known for its stunning views and attracts hundreds of visitors daily. As investigations continue, security forces are actively searching for the attackers, and the region braces for the potential fallout from this horrific incident.