A group of tourists became the target of a terrorist attack in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. The assault resulted in six casualties, comprising three tourists and three local residents. Two of the injured remain in critical condition, while one person lost their life. In the chaotic firing, several horses were also struck. Currently, the security forces have cordoned off the area, intensifying their search efforts to capture the assailants.
Reckless Shooting at Tourists Enjoying Horseback Riding
The Jammu and Kashmir police reported that the Pahalgam terror attack took place around 2:30 PM. Armed individuals, dressed in military uniforms, unleashed a barrage of bullets on tourists who were savoring the horseback ride in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam. Travel by car is challenging in this area, necessitating travel by foot or horseback, and the security forces are advancing with caution, securing the entire region.
LIVE: Major Terrorist Attack on Tourists Riding Horses in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
Baisaran Valley is a renowned travel destination located a few kilometers from Pahalgam. Accessible only by horse or on foot, it draws a substantial number of tourists each year. The shooting occurred right at the onset of the tourist season, when the valley is usually bustling with visitors.
TRF Militant Outfit Suspected in Attack
In response to the Pahalgam terror incident, an additional Quick Reaction Team (QAT) from the CRPF has been dispatched to the scene. Preliminary intel suggests the involvement of the TRF militant group. Intelligence agencies indicate the attackers donned police or army uniforms and numbered between two to three, with a deliberate intention to specifically target tourists.
'My Son Was Shot'
Following the attack, a distressing video surfaced of a mother stating, “My son has been shot.”. Those wounded in the attack have been admitted to a local hospital for urgent care.
The former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and PDP Chief, Mehbooba Mufti, strongly condemned the attack in Pahalgam. She expressed her sympathies, stating, “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
Former DGP Expresses Concerns
SP Vaid, the former DGP of J&K, voiced serious concerns over the Pahalgam attack. With the Amarnath Yatra approaching, the region that serves as a base camp for the pilgrimage sees a surge in tourists. The summer heat in most parts of India draws many to the cooling climes of Kashmir. Historically, terrorists tend to avoid targeting tourists, as it adversely impacts local businesses. However, tourists visiting elevated terrains like this are vulnerable as police presence is sparse, granting terrorists an opportunity to strike.
