26 Killed in Deadly Terror Attack at Popular Kashmir Tourist Spot Near Pahalgam
Kashmir: In one of the deadliest terror strikes in Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama attack, 26 people — mostly tourists — were killed on Tuesday afternoon when armed terrorists opened fire at Baisaran meadow, a famed tourist destination near Pahalgam.
The chilling assault occurred around 3 PM as tourists thronged the picturesque site, often dubbed “mini Switzerland”, to enjoy pony rides, picnics, and the scenic views. The area, surrounded by dense pine forests and mountains, became a scene of bloodshed and chaos as gunshots rang out.
Among the 26 killed were two foreign nationals and two locals, a senior official confirmed, adding that at least 20 others were seriously injured. The toll may rise, authorities said. Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene of indiscriminate firing, screams for help, and bodies strewn across the meadow. “There was nowhere to run,” one terrified tourist said.
According to officials, the attackers—believed to have infiltrated from Kishtwar via Kokernag in south Kashmir—specifically targeted civilians. Disturbingly, one survivor recounted that the gunmen asked names before shooting their victims. The victims included tourists from states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. Among the deceased was Karnataka businessman Manjunath Rao from Shivamogga.
Claiming responsibility for the attack was The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow outfit of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). This marks the first major assault on tourists in the region in years, striking at the heart of Kashmir’s recovering tourism industry.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack, calling it “much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years.” The attack coincides with the ongoing visit of US Vice President JD Vance to India, raising further security concerns.
Rescue efforts were hampered by the terrain, with Baisaran accessible only by foot or horseback. Locals helped transport the injured on ponies while helicopters were deployed for evacuation. The injured were moved to hospitals, and families of the victims were housed under heavy security at the Pahalgam Club.
A massive joint operation by the Army, CRPF, and local police has been launched to track down the terrorists. Security forces have cordoned off the region and are conducting intensive search operations.
The incident has drawn national outrage and mourning, with calls for heightened security measures and justice for the victims.
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