In a devastating act of terror that has shaken the nation to its core, at least 26 civilians—primarily tourists—lost their lives on Tuesday in a brutal assault in Jammu and Kashmir's picturesque Pahalgam region. The attack, which occurred in the serene Baisaran meadow located in Anantnag district, is being described as the deadliest in the Kashmir Valley since the infamous 2019 Pulwama attack.

According to sources, the massacre took place during the late morning hours as a group of tourists ventured into the meadow—an otherwise tranquil destination only accessible by foot or pony. What began as a serene holiday outing for many quickly turned into a nightmare as heavily armed militants unleashed a coordinated assault with automatic weapons and grenades, leaving chaos, death, and panic in their wake.

Resistance Front Claims Responsibility Amid Official Silence

Responsibility for the horrific strike was reportedly claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a militant proxy organization widely believed to be an offshoot of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). However, Indian authorities have not officially confirmed this claim as investigations remain ongoing. The TRF has been involved in numerous targeted attacks in Kashmir over recent years and is known for its ties to LeT, which remains on multiple international terrorism blacklists.

NIA Steps In As Probe Begins

A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team has reached the attack site and commenced a full-scale investigation, collecting forensic samples and gathering evidence. The NIA will also be working in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and intelligence agencies to trace the attackers, who are believed to have used high-altitude forest trails to infiltrate the area.

Security forces have since launched a massive manhunt across South Kashmir, cordoning off surrounding regions including Aru, Lidderwat, and the Pahalgam-Annantnag axis in pursuit of suspects.

Nation in Mourning: PM Modi Cuts Short Trip, Convenes Emergency Meet

Reacting swiftly to the unfolding tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned early from an official visit to Saudi Arabia and immediately chaired a high-level emergency meeting at Delhi airport. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar joined the deliberations, which focused on the security implications and diplomatic dimensions of the incident.

In an emotional address to the media, PM Modi vowed justice for the victims, saying, “The perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared. India will respond decisively to those who harbor terror.”

Amit Shah Visits Families, Pays Tribute at Memorial

Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the grief-stricken families of the victims and laid floral tributes at a temporary memorial erected in Pahalgam. Interacting with survivors and local residents, Shah condemned the "cowardly and despicable" attack and assured full government support, including financial assistance and trauma care for the injured and bereaved.

He reiterated that the Indian government remains committed to neutralizing terrorist threats in the Valley, adding, “The sacrifices of these innocent lives will not go in vain. We will root out terrorism from our soil.”

Global Leaders Stand with India

The brutality of the Pahalgam massacre has drawn global condemnation, with numerous international leaders expressing solidarity with India. US President Donald Trump called the attack “an assault on humanity,” while Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed his condolences and support for counter-terror efforts in the region.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also condemned the carnage, describing it as a "heinous act of violence against innocent civilians," and emphasized the need for international collaboration in the fight against terrorism.

Messages of support have also poured in from leaders of France, Australia, Germany, and Japan, reflecting a widespread international outcry against the continuing scourge of terrorism in South Asia.

Tourists Among Victims, Panic in Travel Sector

Tragically, the majority of the victims were domestic tourists from states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi, and West Bengal. Travel agencies across India reported a wave of cancellations in the wake of the attack, especially for destinations in Kashmir, as fears of safety escalated.

Several survivors recounted their horrific experiences—one tourist from Mumbai, who lost her husband and son in the ambush, said, “We came here seeking peace, but we witnessed hell.”

The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department is now working with the Home Ministry to review security protocols at major tourist sites and ensure round-the-clock patrolling in sensitive zones.

Helplines and Emergency Services Activated

In response to the tragedy, the government has activated multiple helplines for families of victims and those requiring assistance. Emergency Control Rooms have been set up in Srinagar and Anantnag, and the 24/7 Tourist Help Desk is operational to provide updates and psychological support.

Emergency Contacts:

Srinagar Control Room: 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651, 7006058623

Police Control Room (Anantnag): 9596777669, 01932-225870

WhatsApp Support: 9419051940

J&K Tourism Department: 8899931010, 8899941010, 9906663868, 9906906115

Background: Baisaran—From Paradise to Terror Ground

Baisaran, often dubbed “Mini-Switzerland,” is known for its lush meadows and panoramic mountain views, drawing thousands of tourists each year. But Tuesday’s bloodshed has cast a dark shadow over the once-idyllic location. Residents and pony operators who regularly accompany tourists up the trail are now struggling to come to terms with the violence that shattered their peaceful routines.

Local village councils have announced mourning for a week, and special prayers are being held for the departed across religious establishments in the Valley.

Political Reactions and Security Policy Under Review

While political leaders across the spectrum condemned the incident, several opposition figures also called for a comprehensive review of the government’s counter-terrorism strategy in Kashmir. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge urged bipartisan consensus to eliminate terrorism, while Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader Omar Abdullah asked for intelligence reforms and stronger border surveillance.

Defence analysts believe that the use of high-altitude access points by militants and the remote location of Baisaran made it vulnerable to such an ambush. Calls for advanced drone surveillance, troop redeployment, and community policing have gained momentum in the aftermath.