Terror grips India’s Kashmir region after gunmen attack tourist group, killing at least 20.
The attack occurred in Pahalgam, a popular tourist spot in Indian-administered Kashmir. Gunmen opened fire on a group of domestic tourists. The death toll has risen to at least 20, with many more injured. Some are in critical condition.
Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, described the attack as one of the most severe targeting civilians in recent years. Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, vowed that those responsible will face justice. “Our resolve to fight terrorism is unwavering and will only intensify,” he said. Modi added that Amit Shah, the Home Minister, will chair an emergency security meeting in Srinagar, Kashmir’s largest city.
The attack took place at Baisaran, a hilltop meadow just 5km from Pahalgam, often called “India’s Switzerland.” Local authorities say the area is difficult to access, hindering rescue efforts. Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of Kashmir, confirmed that troops and police have been deployed to the scene. VD Kumar Berdy, a senior police official, noted that vehicles cannot reach the site, complicating the response.
A tourist from Gujarat, who witnessed the attack, described the chaos that ensued. “People were running, crying, and screaming,” they said. Videos on social media show survivors claiming that the gunmen targeted non-Muslims.
Background
Kashmir has experienced violence since 1989, although tensions have eased in recent years. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. The BBC reported on the incident.