Pahalgam Terror Attack: 26 Tourists Killed in Shocking Ambush, India on High Alert

In a tragic and deeply disturbing development, India witnessed one of its deadliest terrorist attacks in recent times on April 22, 2025, as gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists near Baisaran Valley, just outside Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The brazen attack has left 26 tourists dead and several critically injured, shaking the conscience of the nation and raising serious concerns about the resurgence of organized militancy in the valley.

What Happened in Pahalgam?

According to early reports from local police and security forces, a group of over 40 tourists had ventured into the scenic Baisaran area, often referred to as the ‘Mini Switzerland’ of Kashmir. As they trekked through the lush valley in the early evening hours, heavily armed terrorists reportedly hiding in the surrounding forest areas opened indiscriminate fire.

Chaos erupted instantly. Several tourists tried to flee while others were caught in the crossfire. Security reinforcements arrived nearly 20 minutes later, by which time the assailants had already escaped into the dense forest.

Medical teams were rushed to the scene. However, despite their best efforts, 26 tourists were declared dead. More than a dozen were taken to nearby hospitals, some battling life-threatening injuries.

Who Is Behind the Attack?

A little-known terror outfit calling itself “Kashmir Resistance” has claimed responsibility via social media channels, stating that the attack was carried out in protest against “continued demographic changes” and “suppression of Kashmiris” post the revocation of Article 370 in 2019.

The group, suspected to have links with Pakistan-based operatives, is believed to have recently become active in South Kashmir. Intelligence agencies are now examining the credibility of this group and its potential ties to larger terror networks operating across the Line of Control (LoC).

National and Global Reactions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was attending a digital infrastructure summit in Mumbai, condemned the attack as a “cowardly act of violence against innocent civilians” and assured the country that the perpetrators would not be spared.

Home Minister Amit Shah has rushed a special investigation team (SIT) to Kashmir and has instructed top-level coordination between the Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police to track the attackers.

Notably, the attack occurred during U.S. President JD Vance’s visit to India, intensifying global attention on the region’s security dynamics. The White House issued a statement extending condolences and reaffirming its support to India in combating terrorism.

Tourism in the Valley at Risk Again

Kashmir’s tourism sector, which had seen a strong resurgence in 2023 and 2024 with record numbers of both domestic and international tourists, is once again under severe threat. This attack has already triggered mass cancellations from tour operators and travelers.

“This tragedy has not only taken lives but also destroyed the peace we had just started enjoying again,” said a local hotel owner in Pahalgam.

Security Stepped Up Across the Region

In response, security has been heightened across the Union Territory. Checkpoints have been set up on key roads, and aerial surveillance is being used in forested areas of Anantnag and Pahalgam. The Indian Army has launched “Operation Falcon Claw”, a major combing operation to flush out militants from the area.

India Stands United

As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, citizens across the country have taken to social media with hashtags like #PahalgamAttack and #KashmirTerror, expressing grief, anger, and solidarity.

India is once again reminded of the fragile peace in its most picturesque region. The attack not only poses a serious national security challenge but also forces the government to reassess its counter-terrorism strategies in Kashmir.
Stay tuned to The Instant News for the fastest updates on India’s breaking news, politics, and global developments.