Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir – April 23, 2025:
In an appalling act of terror that has shaken the nation, 26 tourists were brutally killed and several others severely injured after unidentified gunmen attacked a group of travelers in Pahalgam, a tranquil hill town in Kashmir famed for its scenic beauty. The attack occurred on Tuesday, sending shockwaves across the country and drawing international condemnation.
While official investigations are ongoing, unconfirmed reports suggest involvement of a group believed to be linked to the Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba. The motive remains unclear, but the scale and choice of target have alarmed both citizens and security officials.
In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cut short his diplomatic tour of Saudi Arabia and returned to India to lead emergency consultations.
Among the growing voices demanding accountability is Advocate Arsalan Khalid, who denounced the incident in strong terms and questioned the government’s recent claims of peace in the region.
“Today terrorists have carried out a cowardly attack in Kashmir valley,” said Advocate Khalid.
“We want this government to take some concrete steps against those behind this attack as soon as possible. This government used to say repeatedly that we have made Kashmir terror-free, but why is the condition of Kashmir like this today? The government will have to answer this. Strict steps should be taken against the terrorists.”
This attack marks one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in Kashmir in recent years. Historically, insurgent violence in the region has targeted security forces and political institutions, but tourists were rarely direct targets, making this incident particularly disturbing.
Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the massacre and acknowledged its severity, calling it “a dark day for Kashmir and the nation.”
Medical teams are working around the clock to treat the survivors, some of whom are in critical condition. Security has been ramped up across the valley, and checkpoints have been established to track down the perpetrators.
As grief blankets the valley and the nation watches with a heavy heart, demands for justice and stronger counter-terror measures grow louder. Citizens, leaders, and activists are uniting in their call for decisive government action, not just in words, but in resolute, measurable steps.
Reporter: Arsalan Khalid, Advocate
