SRINAGAR, Apr 22: A deadly terror attack on tourists at Baisaran near Pahalgam in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district has resulted in the tragic loss of 27 lives, with several others critically injured. The attack, which occurred earlier today, has shaken the nation, with authorities taking immediate steps to address the situation.
Reports reaching Srinagar based news gathering agency Kashmir Dot Com that the attack has left 27 people dead, the majority of whom were tourists, mostly non-locals. Among the deceased is Shalinder Kalpiya, while several others injured in the attack hail from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to land in Srinagar shortly to personally oversee the response and security measures in the region. Shah will convene high-level discussions with senior officials and security agencies to review the situation and ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly assault on innocent civilians.” He directed the Home Minister to ensure swift and decisive action to address the incident. Modi further emphasized the need for justice and the restoration of public safety in the region.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow, offering condolences to the victims’ families and stating, “The targeting of innocent tourists is an unforgivable crime. We will ensure that those responsible face justice swiftly.”
In response to the tragedy, security forces have launched a massive combing operation in the surrounding forest areas, with high-level administrative officials already on-site.
This attack has sparked widespread condemnation and cast a shadow over the tourism industry in Kashmir, which had recently seen an uptick in visitors.
(KDC)
