Terror Attack in Pahalgam: 28 Tourists Killed in Brutal Assault by Pakistan-Backed Militants
A devastating terror attack has shaken the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam in Anantnag district, Jammu & Kashmir, where 28 tourists lost their lives in a brutal assault allegedly carried out by Pakistan-supported militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba.
On what was supposed to be a peaceful and scenic vacation, several tourists were enjoying the pleasant climate of Pahalgam when armed militants disguised in army uniforms suddenly opened fire. Eyewitness reports state that Manjunath Rao, a businessman from Karnataka, was among those tragically killed in the gunfire.
The horrifying incident was captured in chilling videos posted by survivors on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), showing bodies of tourists lying on the ground amid chaos and screams. One particularly heart-wrenching scene depicted a woman sitting in shock next to her husband’s lifeless body, too numb even to cry.
Militants Demanded Religion and Identity Details Before Shooting
Survivors have revealed deeply disturbing accounts. According to eyewitnesses, the terrorists held tourists at gunpoint and demanded to know their names and religious affiliations before proceeding. In some reported cases, victims were forced to remove their clothes before being shot at point-blank range.
These accounts point to a targeted and premeditated act of religious violence, raising serious concerns about communal hatred being used as a tool of terrorism. The attackers reportedly used AK-47 assault rifles and appeared to have planned the massacre meticulously.
Lashkar-e-Taiba Claims Responsibility
The Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Initial intelligence inputs suggest that six militants were involved in executing the attack. Security agencies are on high alert, and search operations have intensified in the region.
Political leaders from across the spectrum have condemned the attack. The Indian Home Ministry has described it as a “cowardly and heinous act of terror” and has vowed to bring those responsible to justice. The incident has triggered widespread outrage and mourning across the country.
Security has been ramped up in all major tourist areas in Jammu & Kashmir following the attack, and extra forces have been deployed to ensure no further escalation.
A Tragic Reminder of the Ongoing Threat
This massacre has not only robbed families of their loved ones but has also sent shockwaves through the travel and tourism sector, especially in Kashmir, which has been making a steady recovery as a peaceful tourist destination in recent years.
The government has promised compensation for the victims’ families and stated that counter-terror operations will be intensified to prevent such barbaric incidents from recurring.
