Pahalgam, April 23, 2025: Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday, the site of a horrific terror attack that killed 26 people, including tourists, on April 22, 2025. The attack, among the deadliest in the region since 2019, has jolted the nation and drawn global attention to the fragile security situation in Kashmir.
The assault occurred in the serene Baisaran meadow, known as ‘Mini Switzerland’ for its rolling green hills and breathtaking vistas, located 5–6 kilometers from Pahalgam. Around 2:30 PM, 5–6 heavily armed terrorists, some wearing fake Indian Army uniforms, emerged from nearby forests and unleashed chaos. They fired indiscriminately at civilians, targeting families, pony riders, and tourists. Reports indicate the attackers, linked to The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), singled out men and demanded some recite the Kalima before opening fire. The victims included 22 tourists, two locals, a UAE national, a Nepali citizen, and Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, a 26-year-old Indian Navy officer on leave.
Shah, who arrived in Srinagar late Tuesday, began his visit with a somber wreath-laying ceremony at the Police Control Room, honoring the fallen alongside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. He then traveled to Baisaran to inspect the attack site and consult with security forces. Addressing the media, Shah vowed, “This cowardly act will not go unpunished. We will hunt down those responsible.” Earlier, he led a high-level meeting with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and top officials to strategize a response.
The attack’s brutality has sparked outrage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cutting short a foreign trip, called it an “attack on humanity” and promised swift justice. Condolences poured in from world leaders, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu. Security forces have sealed off Baisaran, launched a manhunt in surrounding forests, and intensified checks across major cities. Intelligence suggests the terrorists infiltrated from Kishtwar two weeks ago, exploiting rugged terrain.
Evacuation efforts faced hurdles due to Baisaran’s remote location, accessible only by foot or pony. Locals heroically used ponies to transport the injured, while helicopters airlifted victims to hospitals. The government has arranged extra flights from Srinagar to support stranded travelers, as Kashmir observes a shutdown in mourning.
Politically, the attack has ignited debate. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, expressed solidarity but questioned the government’s security narrative in Kashmir. Asaduddin Owaisi termed it a “massacre,” while Kapil Sibal urged action against Pakistan, which denied involvement.
As the nation grieves, Baisaran’s tranquil beauty stands scarred, a stark reminder of the challenges ahead in securing peace.
