Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, April 26, 2025 – In a heartfelt tribute, Ravinder Raina, President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Jammu and Kashmir unit, visited Hapatnard in Pahalgam to express deep condolences to the family of Shaheed Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a local pony ride operator who heroically lost his life during the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025. Raina hailed Shah as a national hero, whose selfless act of bravery in protecting tourists during the deadly assault embodies the spirit of Kashmiriyat and courage.
The tragic attack at Baisaran meadow, a scenic tourist spot in Pahalgam, claimed 26 lives, including 25 tourists and Shah, a 20-year-old who was the sole breadwinner of his family. Shah courageously attempted to disarm a terrorist by grabbing his rifle while shielding a tourist on his horse, but was fatally shot, taking three bullets to the chest. His sacrifice has sparked widespread admiration, with leaders and citizens alike saluting his valor.
Accompanied by senior BJP leaders Sunil Sharma, Sofi Yousuf, Rafiq Wani, and Rumaisa Wani, Raina met Shah’s grieving mother, father, and other family members to offer solace and support. “Shaheed Adil Shah is our national hero,” Raina declared, emphasizing that Shah’s bravery thwarted attempts to tarnish Kashmir’s image. “He saved lives and upheld the values of humanity, proving that Kashmir stands united against terrorism.” Raina’s visit underscored the BJP’s commitment to honoring those who sacrifice for the nation and supporting affected families.
The Pahalgam terror attack, orchestrated by four terrorists, including Adil Hussain Thokar and three Pakistani nationals linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, targeted Hindu tourists, forcing them to recite the Kalma before shooting them. The attack, the deadliest in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama strike, has prompted a massive crackdown, with security forces demolishing the homes of 10 terrorists, including Thokar’s, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) taking over the probe. Shah’s actions during the attack have been credited with saving lives, earning him posthumous recognition as a symbol of resistance against terror.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for Shah’s family, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed the “harshest response” to the perpetrators. The incident has also drawn global condolences, with leaders from the United States, Canada, and Thailand condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with India.
Raina’s tribute, shared widely on social media, included multilingual salutes in Hindi and Urdu, reflecting Shah’s universal appeal. “Syed Adil Hussain Shah’s courage and sacrifice shall always be remembered,” Raina posted, calling him a beacon of hope for Kashmir. The visit to Hapatnard, coupled with Raina’s emotional address, reinforced the message that Shah’s legacy will inspire unity and resilience in the face of terrorism.