The nation is grappling with the aftermath of the horrific terrorist attack that struck the picturesque Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Tuesday, April 22nd. The attack, targeting tourists in one of Kashmir’s prime destinations, resulted in a significant loss of innocent lives and has drawn widespread condemnation. Here’s a summary of the current situation and the latest developments:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah offers his final respects to the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. | Photo Credit: PTI
Recap of the Attack (April 22)
- Location: Baisaran Valley (“Mini Switzerland”), near Pahalgam.
- Incident: Gunmen opened fire indiscriminately on tourists visiting the meadow. Eyewitness accounts suggest victims may have been targeted based on identity, with firing lasting for 25-30 minutes.
- Casualties: At least 26 people were killed, predominantly tourists from various parts of India (including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, UP) and one Nepalese national. Among the deceased were a newly-wed Navy officer and an Intelligence Bureau official. Over 40 others sustained injuries.
- Responsibility: The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be a shadow group of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.
Current Security Situation & Manhunt (April 23)
- Massive Search Operations: A large-scale manhunt is underway involving the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police to track down the perpetrators. The Baisaran area and surrounding forests have been cordoned off.
- Suspects Identified: Security agencies have released sketches of suspects believed to be involved. Anantnag Police has announced a Rs 20 lakh reward for information leading to their neutralization.
- Heightened Alert & Related Operations: Security forces are on high alert across the Union Territory. Today, security forces also foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Baramulla, neutralizing two terrorists, and engaged terrorists in a separate encounter in Kulgam district.
- Investigation: A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has reached Pahalgam to assist the local police in the probe. Reports suggest hundreds have been detained for questioning.
Government Response & High-Level Actions
- Top-Level Meetings: Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia and held urgent meetings upon arrival. He chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) today. Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Srinagar, met with victims’ families, and attended the CCS meeting alongside Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other top officials. J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also chaired a high-level security review.
- Strong Condemnation & Resolve: Leaders across the government, including the PM, Home Minister, and Defence Minister, have strongly condemned the attack, expressing condolences and vowing that the perpetrators and their sponsors will be brought to justice. Defence Minister Singh promised a “loud and clear” response.
- Diplomatic/Strategic Decisions: In a significant response, India announced the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, the closure of the Attari border crossing, and the suspension of SAARC visas for Pakistani nationals.
- Ex-Gratia & Support: The J&K administration announced ex-gratia relief (Rs 10 lakh for families of deceased, Rs 2 lakh for seriously injured, Rs 1 lakh for minor injuries). State governments like Karnataka and Maharashtra have also announced compensation for victims from their respective states. Helplines and assistance centers have been set up.
National & International Reactions
- Supreme Court: The Supreme Court of India formally condemned the attack in a resolution, calling it a “diabolical act of mindless violence,” and observed two minutes of silence.
- Widespread Condemnation: Political parties, civil society groups, and citizens across India have expressed outrage and grief. A shutdown was observed in the Kashmir valley today in protest.
- Global Solidarity: Numerous world leaders, including those from the US, Russia, France, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, and Qatar, have condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with India.
Impact & Support Measures
- Tourism Concerns: The attack has understandably caused fear among tourists, leading to cancellations and a reported drop in future bookings. Airlines are offering waivers on changes and cancellations for Srinagar flights.
- Resilience & Local Support: Despite the tragedy, stories of resilience have emerged, with some tourists choosing to continue their visit and expressing trust in the local Kashmiri populace, many of whom reportedly helped victims during the attack. Support systems are active at airports and railway stations to assist affected tourists and facilitate the transport of mortal remains.