Pahalgam Terror Attack Updates: PM Modi Cuts Short Saudi Visit, Lands In Delhi

After 26 people were reportedly killed in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Congress leader Shama Mohammed has said that “Rawalpindi should be flattened”.

“No more talks, no more trade, no more cricket , no more cultural activities. Time to teach Pakistan a lesson they don’t forget,” she wrote on X.

Rawalpindi should be flattened ! No more talks, no more trade, no more cricket , no more cultural activities. Time to teach Pakistan a lesson they don’t forget. Jai Hind. #Pahalgam

— Dr. Shama Mohamed (@drshamamohd) April 22, 2025

Helpline Numbers For Assistance

Emergency Control Room – Srinagar: 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651

Adil Fareed, ADC Srinagar – 7006058623

24/7 Tourist Help Desk – Police Control Room, Anantnag 9596777669 | 01932-225870

WhatsApp: 9419051940

Helpline numbers by Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Department:

Please contact the following numbers for any assistance and information:

8899931010

8899941010

99066 63868 (Nissar Asst Director Tourism )

99069 06115 (Mudassir Tourist Officer)

PM Modi arrives in Delhi, cuts short Saudi visit after Jammu and Kashmir terror attack.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said that he spoke to Amit Shah and Omar Abdullah and has taken an update on the Pahalgam attack. 

“The families of victims deserve justice and our fullest support,” he said on X.

Spoke with HM Amit Shah, J&K CM Omar Abdullah, and J&K PCC President Tariq Karra about the horrific Pahalgam terror attack. Received an update on the situation.
The families of victims deserve justice and our fullest support.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 23, 2025

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has condemning the “vile” terror attack in Pahalgam and pledged that “Europe will stand with India.”

“The vile terror attack in Pahalgam today stole so many innocent lives. My deepest condolences to Narendra Modi and every Indian heart grieving today. Yet I know that India’s spirit is unbreakable. You will stand strong in this ordeal. And Europe will stand with you,” she said in a post on X.

The vile terror attack in Pahalgam today stole so many innocent lives.
My deepest condolences to @narendramodi and every Indian heart grieving today.
Yet I know that India’s spirit is unbreakable.
You will stand strong in this ordeal.
And Europe will stand with you.

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 22, 2025

Germany’s outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz has said that he “strongly” condemns the “heinous” terrorist attack against tourists in Pahalgam. 

“Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we wish a speedy recovery for all the injured. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the people of India,” he posted on X.

We strongly condemn the heinous terrorist attack against tourists in Pahalgam. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we wish a speedy recovery for all the injured. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the people of India.

— Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) April 22, 2025

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed shock over the horrific terror attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday.

I am shocked by the horrific terror attack on innocent civilians in Jammu and Kashmir overnight.
There is no justification for this violence and Australia condemns it.
Our hearts go out to the injured, to those mourning loved ones and to everyone in Australia touched by this…

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 22, 2025

Air India Express has announced free rescheduling and full refunds on flights to and from Srinagar till April 30 following the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

#ImportantUpdate
We are waiving all change and cancellation fees for our flights to and from Srinagar until 30th April 2025, in consideration of the prevailing situation.
To change or cancel your bookings online, please visit: https://t.co/20Ow1YVToE or #ChatWithTia on +91… pic.twitter.com/2d86vkBUfA

— Air India Express (@AirIndiaX) April 22, 2025

US President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to offer condolences for the victims of the “Islamist terror attack” in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam. PM Modi thanked Trump for his support and said that India is determined to bring perpetrators and backers of this “cowardly and heinous terrorist attack” to justice.

Trump condemned the attack in Pahalgam and said that the United States stands with India in its fight against terrorism and offered all possible support.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who is on an official visit to the US and Peru, is returning to India following the terrorist attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. @nsitharaman is cutting short her official visit to the USA-Peru.
She is taking the earliest available flight back to India to be with our people in this difficult and tragic time.#PahalgamTerroristAttack

— Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) April 22, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed grief over the terrorist attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday, stating that Israel stands with India in its fight against terrorism.

My dear friend @narendramodi,
I am deeply saddened by the barbaric terrorist attack in #Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, that killed and injured dozens of innocents.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims & their families.
Israel stands with India in its fight against terrorism.

— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) April 22, 2025

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday “strongly” condemned an attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed dozens, his spokesperson said.
Mr Guterres “strongly condemns the armed attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April,” said Stephane Dujarric in a statement. “The Secretary-General stresses attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.

Following the terror attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, IndiGo has issued a travel advisory. The airline also announced waivers for rescheduling or canceling travel until April 30.

#TravelAdvisory:
In light of the current situation in #Srinagar, we’ve extended waivers on rescheduling/cancellation. We’re also operating two special flights on April 23. For more information, please visit https://t.co/h9C5tfcUUP or call +91 124 4973838 – +91 124 6173838 pic.twitter.com/SDccuqW1Gl

— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) April 22, 2025

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that during meeting with PM Modi in Jeddah, Saudi Crown Prince strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and expressed his deepest condolences on the innocent lives lost.

PM @narendramodi and Crown Prince HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman held extensive talks & co-chaired the 2nd India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in Jeddah at the Royal Palace. HRH Crown Prince strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack & expressed his deepest… pic.twitter.com/PBxfi9DEF4

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 22, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for India on Tuesday night after cutting short his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia in the wake of the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

PM Modi was originally scheduled to return to New Delhi on Wednesday night.

“PM @narendramodi concludes his State Visit to Saudi Arabia and has emplaned for India,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a post on X.

 The US condemned the terrorist attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday and said that it is monitoring the reports regarding the attack, the US State Department spokesperson said.
In a statement to ANI, the US State Department spokesperson said that the US at this time is unaware of any US citizens who are victims of the attack.
The US State Department said, “We are monitoring reports of a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir. The United States condemns terrorism unequivocally. At this time, we are unaware of any US citizens who are victims of the attack.”

In a bid to help stranded tourists return home, Air India has decided to operate two additional flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai on Wednesday.

#TravelAdvisory
In view of the prevailing situation, Air India will operate two additional flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai on Wednesday, 23rd April.
Details of the two flights are as under:
Srinagar to Delhi – 11:30 AM
Srinagar to Mumbai – 12:00 noon
Booking for…

— Air India (@airindia) April 22, 2025

Five tourists from Maharashtra lost their lives in the terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday, the Deputy Chief Minister’s Office (DCMO) said, according to ANI. 

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had a phone conversation with Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu regarding arrangements to bring the bodies back to the state. During the conversation, Mr Shinde requested Mr Naidu to arrange a special flight to also bring back the tourists from Maharashtra stranded in Jammu & Kashmir. Accepting the request, Mr Naidu assured that once a list of the stranded tourists is provided, arrangements will be made to bring them to Mumbai on a special flight, the DCMO said.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strongly condemned “heinous” terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. 

UAE offered condolences and sympathy to the government and people of India, along with the families of the victims of the “heinous attack”.

The statement said: “The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned the terrorist attack that targeted tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in dozens of deaths and injuries of innocent people.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of the UAE affirmed that the UAE expresses its strong condemnation of these criminal acts and its permanent rejection of all forms of violence and terrorism aimed at undermining security and stability in contravention of international law.

“The Ministry expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the government and people of India, and to the families of the victims of this heinous attack, as well as its wishes of a speedy recovery for all the injured”, the statement said.

An Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer from Hyderabad was among the tourists killed in the terror attack in Kashmir on Tuesday.

Manish Ranjan, a native of Bihar, was shot dead in front of his wife and children.

The IB officer, posted in Hyderabad, was on a Leave Travel Concession (LTC) visit with his family.

The family, along with many other tourists, was in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley, known as ‘Mini Switzerland’, when the terrorists attacked them.

Manish Ranjan was posted in the ministerial section of the IB’s Hyderabad office.

A woman from Nagpur family suffered a fracture on her leg after she jumped from a hill along with her family members while escaping a terrorist attack near Pahalgam town in Kashmir, the Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said.

The CMO post on X stated, “A family from Nagpur was also there at the time of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. Hearing the sound of the gunshot, they jumped from a hill. Simran Rupchandani fell and her leg was fractured,” it said.

Two more persons – Garv and Tilak Rupchandani – were also with her and all three of them are safe. They have been contacted and all necessary assistance is being provided to them, the CMO added. 

In a post on X, Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said a joint search operation has been launched in Baisran, Pahalgam, Anantnag to trace the terrorists involved in the brutal attack on tourists earlier in the day. “The search operation is currently in progress, with all efforts focused on bringing the attackers to justice,” it said on X. 

On 22 April 2025, in a cowardly act of violence, terrorists opened fire on innocent tourists and locals.
In the immediate aftermath, Joint Forces are overseeing the situation. Medical teams were swiftly mobilized and casualty evacuation commenced.
A Joint Search Operation has…

— Chinar Corps🍁 – Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) April 22, 2025

According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, US President Donald Trump will soon speak to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Kashmir terror attack.

“The President has been briefed by the National Security Advisor and he’s being kept up to speed as more facts are learned. What we know already is that dozens were killed and even more were injured in a brutal terrorist attack in a popular tourist location in South Kashmir. President Trump will be speaking with Prime Minister Modi as soon as he possibly can to express his heartfelt condolences for those lost, and our prayers are with those injured, and our nation’s support for our ally India. These types of horrific events by terrorists are why those of us who work for peace and stability in the world continue our mission…,” she told a press conference.

#WATCH | Washington, DC | #PahalgamTerrorAttack | White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt says, “The President has been briefed by the National Security Advisor and he’s being kept up to speed as more facts are learned. What we know already is that dozens were killed and… pic.twitter.com/R1InMXdTRu

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025

Security has been stepped up in the national capital following the terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam, officials said.

The Delhi Police ramped up security across the city, focusing particularly on tourist hotspots and border checkpoints, officials said, confirming that checking and surveillance have been intensified.

They said traffic movement has also been regulated in sensitive zones.

The alert coincides with the ongoing visit of US Vice President J D Vance as security has already been strengthened in Delhi and other cities.

Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti said the Chamber & Bar Association Jammu has called for a complete shutdown Wednesday in protest against the terrorist attack on tourists in Kashmir on Tuesday. “I appeal all Kashmiris to unite in solidarity to support this bandh as a mark of respect for the innocent lives lost in the brutal assault in Pahalgam. This isn’t just an attack on a select few-it is an attack on all of us. We stand together in grief and outrage & strongly support this shutdown to condemn the massacre of innocents,” she said on X. 

The Chamber & Bar Association Jammu has called for a complete shutdown tomorrow in protest against the horrific militant attack on tourists. I appeal all Kashmiris to unite in solidarity to support this bandh as a mark of respect for the innocent lives lost in the brutal assault…

— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) April 22, 2025

According to government sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who embarked on a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, has decided to cut short his trip and return early Wednesday. He was originally scheduled to return on Wednesday night. 

“Please save my husband,” a woman’s bone-chilling wails echoed through the picturesque valley of Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam after terrorists opened fire at tourists this afternoon. 

Distressing visuals doing the rounds on social media showed several women pleading for help. “We were having bhelpuri (a snack made of puffed rice) when a man came and shot my husband,” said one of them, as another, with blood splattered on her face, looked helplessly at the man recording the video.

The terrorists came out of the woods and opened fire at the tourists who were picnicking and taking pony rides in Baisaran, also called the ‘mini Switzerland’ of Pahalgam.

Several people were seen lying motionless on the ground. A visibly shaken child was also seen with the group of tourists who survived the attack.

President Donald Trump said the US stands strong with India against terrorism. 

“Deeply disturbing news out of Kashmir. We pray for the souls of those lost, and for the recovery of the injured. Prime Minister Modi, and the incredible people of India, have our full support and deepest sympathies. Our hearts are with you all!” he wrote on Truth Social.

Congress MP Sonia Gandhi also condemned the Kashmir terror attack and said “resorting to violence is an act of cowardice and needs to be condemned in no uncertain terms”. “The entire country stands united against terror. We share a deep resolve to defeat these divisive and violent forces. We need to work to build the broad social consensus against terror that existed in the past. It is imperative that the safety of our citizens is ensured and peace is restored in the region,” she said in a statement.

The CPI(ML) Liberation condemned the terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam and said the Centre’s claim of normalcy in the Union Territory “stands exposed”.

“The CPI(ML) Liberation strongly condemns the terrorist attack on April 22 in Baisaran, Pahalgam, where unarmed tourists were targeted, resulting in several deaths and injuries. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and stand in solidarity with their families,” the Left party said in a statement.

It noted that there had been a disturbing rise in attacks on civilians — residents, migrant workers, and now tourists.

“The Modi government’s claim of normalisation of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and chest-thumping on national security stands exposed as such attacks continue unabated in the region,” the CPI(ML) Liberation said.

A difference of 20 minutes. That’s what saved them, says the family from Maharashtra who survived the terror attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the worst attack on civilians in years. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decried the “heinous act” in the summer retreat of Pahalgam, which lies about 90 kilometres by road from the key city of Srinagar, pledging the attackers “will be brought to justice”.

“This incident happened when we had just left the place of the incident. We could hear the sound of firing for a long time. Everyone was trying to escape from the place. We were 20 minutes away from the actual spot. We did not look back as we just wanted to escape from there,” the man, visiting from Nagpur, told news agency ANI. 

#WATCH | Anantnag, J&K | A tourist couple from Maharashtra’s Nagpur who were present at the spot of the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam, say, “This incident happened when we had just left the place of the incident. We could hear the sound of firing for a long time.… pic.twitter.com/yXF3JLnSMz

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin extended condolences to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

“Kindly accept the sincere condolences over the tragic consequences of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam whose victims were civilians – citizens of various countries. This brutal crime has no justification whatsoever. We expect that its organizers and perpetrators will face a deserved punishment,” he said. 

“I would like to reiterate our commitment to further increasing cooperation with Indian partners in fighting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Please convey words of sincere sympathy and support to the near and dear ones of the deceased as well as wishes for a speedy recovery of all injured,” he added. 

According to defence officials, an Indian Navy officer was among those killed in the terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam. A resident of Haryana, he was posted in Kochi. He got married on April 16 and was on leave. 

Speaking to reporters, Sushant Satapathy, who lost his brother Prashant Satpathy in the Kashmir terror attack, said: “I received the information today at around 3pm. I called on the toll-free number and was informed about his death.” 

Sushant Satapathy is from Odisha.

VIDEO | Balasore: “I received the information today at around 3 pm. I called on the toll-free number and was informed about his death,” says Sushant Satapathy, brother of Pahalgam terror attack victim Prashant Satpathy, resident of Odisha.
(Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/zNzx9a2asa

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 22, 2025

At least two people from Pune have suffered gunshot injuries in a terrorist attack in Kashmir, with NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule requesting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to provide immediate medical aid and support.

Requesting @OmarAbdullah for providing immediate medical aid and support to the following people hailing from Pune who have suffered injuries in the Pahalgham firing incident today: Asawari Jagdale, Pragati Jagdale, Santosh Jagdale (gunshot wound), Kaustubh Ganbote (gunshot…

— Supriya Sule (@supriya_sule) April 22, 2025

Sources said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah drove straight to the Raj Bhavan on landing at the Srinagar airport. Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police Nalin Prabhat briefed Mr Shah upon his arrival. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and Director of Intelligence Bureau Tapan Deka were present at the time of the briefing.

In a post on X, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said: “Strongly condemn the terror attack in #Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and wish the injured a speedy recovery. Those behind this heinous act must be brought to justice. Let us stand united against such acts of violence and reaffirm our commitment to peace and harmony.” 

According to sources, security has been stepped up across Mumbai, in view of the terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday.

Security has been increased across all key locations, sources said.

According to PTI, tourists gathered at Baisaran were from several states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat.

US Vice-President JD Vance, who is currently on a four-day visit to India, also condemned the terror attack in Kashmir.

“Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Over the past few days, we have been overcome with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack,” he said.

Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Over the past few days, we have been overcome with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack. https://t.co/cUAyMXje5A

— JD Vance (@JDVance) April 22, 2025

According to PTI, security has been beefed up across Jammu as various outfits have called for protests on Wednesday to condemn the  deadly terror attack on tourists in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam, officials said.

The Jammu & Kashmir unit of the Congress and several right-wing groups have announced major protests in Jammu city and elsewhere on Wednesday.

Officials said a high-level security meeting, jointly chaired by Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and Inspector General of Police, Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti, is underway at the Police Control Room here to chalk out a strategy to deal with the situation.

Additional police and paramilitary forces have already been deployed in sensitive areas as a precautionary measure to maintain peace and law and order, they said.

The Congress has asked all its leaders and workers of the Jammu urban and rural blocks and frontal wings to assemble at the party headquarters here on Wednesday morning for a protest against the terror attack.

The Shiv Sena (UBT), the Dogra Front and the Rashtriya Bajrang Dal, besides the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, lawyers and various market associations have also called for protests in the city on Wednesday.

Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said security forces have launched operations to neutralise terrorists who carried out the Pahalgam attack, and the perpetrators will have to pay a very heavy price for their heinous act.

“Anti-terror ops launched to neutralise terrorists. Entire nation is angry and blood of our forces is boiling. I want to assure the nation that perpetrators of Pahalgam attack will have to pay a very heavy price for their heinous act. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families,” Sinha said on X.

I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. I assure the people that those behind this despicable attack will not go unpunished. Spoke to the DGP & Security officials. Army and J&K Police teams have rushed to the area and launched search operations.

— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) April 22, 2025

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also condemned the terror attack, saying the “act of violence is utterly reprehensible”.

“I am deeply anguished by the brutal terrorist attack in the Pahalgam region of Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir. My heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured,” she said on X. “This act of violence is utterly reprehensible and must not go unpunished.” 

I am deeply anguished by the brutal terrorist attack in the Pahalgam region of Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir.
My heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.
This act of violence is utterly reprehensible and…

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) April 22, 2025

In a post on X, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said two people from the state were among those killed in the terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

“As per the information received so far, 2 tourists from Maharashtra have lost lives, namely Dilip Disle and Atul Mone.  As per the information given by the local administration, 2 persons from Maharashtra are injured in this terrorist attack. One of them is Manik Patel from Panvel and other is S. Bhalchandra Rao. Fortunately condition of both is stable. We are in touch with the senior officials of the J&K administration.  Called and spoked to Kashmir’s Divisional Commissioner Vijaykumar Bidari and took detailed info,” he said.

I strongly condemn the cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam. My heartfelt tributes to the ones who lost lives. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We stand strongly with the bereaved families. Praying for speedy recovery of the injured ones.
We are…

— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) April 22, 2025

Israel on Tuesday said it was “deeply saddened” by the terror attack on tourists in Jammu & Kashmir, saying it stands united with India in the fight against terror.

In a post on X, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also said that his thoughts are with the victims and their families.

“Deeply saddened by the heinous terror attack on tourists in #Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. Israel stands united with India in the fight against terror,” he said.

Deeply anguished by the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Such acts of violence are reprehensible and deserve our strongest condemnation. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families in this hour of grief.

— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) April 22, 2025

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has arrived in Srinagar to take stock of the situation.

#WATCH | J&K | Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaches Srinagar to hold a high-level meeting in the wake of the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam. CM Omar Abdullah receives him at the airport. pic.twitter.com/5KBhhUZ91W

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025

Shrieks for help pierced the skies of Baisaran meadows in this south Kashmir resort as more than a dozen tourists lay motionless in pools of blood following one of the deadliest terror attacks on civilians in recent years in J-K.

Heavily armed terrorists walked out of the woods of Baisaran, a meadow atop a hill in Pahalgam, and surrounded a group of around 40 tourists. The terrorists started firing on the tourists indiscriminately, leaving multiple people dead and injuring at least 20.

Witnesses claimed that as soon as the bullets started flying, the handful of locals who earn a livelihood from tourism ran for safety, leaving the tourists as sitting ducks.

“My husband was shot in the head while seven others were also injured in the attack,” a woman survivor told PTI over phone.

The woman did not identity herself but pleaded for help in evacuating the injured to the hospital.

“Bhaiyya please mere husband ko bacha lo (Brother, please save my husband),” the woman pleaded frantically with this reporter.

As the famed meadows are only accessible by foot or ponies, authorities had to summon choppers for the evacuation of the injured, officials said.

President Droupadi Murmu also condemned the Jammu & Kashmir terror attack and said their dastardly inhuman act of targeting innocent citizens was unpardonable.

“The terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam of Jammu & Kashmir is shocking and painful. It is a dastardly and inhuman act which must be condemned unequivocally. “Attacking innocent citizens, in this case tourists, is utterly appalling and unpardonable. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their dear ones and my prayers for the quick recovery of the injured,” she said in a post on X.

The terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam of Jammu and Kashmir is shocking and painful. It is a dastardly and inhuman act which must be condemned unequivocally. Attacking innocent citizens, in this case tourists, is utterly appalling and unpardonable.
My heartfelt condolences…

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 22, 2025

A businessman from Shivamogga district in Karnataka was shot dead by terrorists in Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir on Tuesday, his family said, news agency PTI reported. 

Manjunath Rao (47), hailing from Vijayanagar in Shivamogga district, had gone to Pahalgam with his wife Pallavi and son Abhijaya.

“My husband was shot dead by terrorists in front of our eyes,” Pallavai told local news channels in Karnataka over the phone.

She further said that she asked the terrorists to kill her as well, to which they replied that she should be alive to convey the message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also denounced the Kashmir terror attack, calling it a highly condemnable and shameful act.

“Targeting unarmed and innocent civilians is a crime against humanity. This is completely unacceptable. The whole country stands united against terrorism and strongly condemns it,” she said in a post on X in Hindi.

“According to reports, many tourists have been killed in this attack. May God grant peace to the departed souls. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured,” she said.

जम्मू-कश्मीर के पहलगाम में पर्यटकों पर कायराना आतंकी हमला अत्यंत निंदनीय एवं शर्मनाक कृत्य है। निहत्थे-निर्दोष आम नागरिकों को निशाना बनाना मानवता के खिलाफ अपराध है। यह पूरी तरह अस्वीकार्य है। पूरा देश आतंकवाद के खिलाफ एकजुट है और कड़े स्वर में इसकी निंदा करता है।
खबरों के…

— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) April 22, 2025

#WATCH | Srinagar: J&K CM Omar Abdullah leaves from his residence as he departs for Pahalgam.
Terrorists opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam’s Baisaran earlier today. Several tourists are feared dead. pic.twitter.com/A4CHPOro6u

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025

Twenty-six civilians were killed in a terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir’s Anantnag district, sources said. 

“Deeply anguished by the news of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The brutal targeting of innocent civilians in this cowardly attack is highly reprehensible. Modi Government follows a Zero-Tolerance Policy against terrorism. Those involved in this heinous act will not be spared,” Union Health Minister JP Nadda said.

“The Union Home Minister is visiting the affected area, and the Hon. Prime Minister is personally monitoring the situation. We are committed to supporting all the affected families and will provide all necessary assistance,” he added.

Deeply anguished by the news of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The brutal targeting of innocent civilians in this cowardly attack is highly reprehensible. Modi Government follows a Zero-Tolerance Policy against terrorism. Those involved in this heinous act…

— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) April 22, 2025

Commuters undergo security checks after terrorists attacked a group of tourists at Pahalgam, in Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir on Tuesday. (PTI)

Sources in the Defence Ministry said Northern Army Commander Lt Gen MV Suchendra Kumar has rushed to Srinagar to monitor the situation. The Army has also launched operations to trace the terrorists. Teams of the Rashtriya Rifles have been deployed at the terror attack site.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar condemned the terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam and paid condolences to those who have lost their loved ones.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Condemn the cowardly terror attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims. Pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

Condemn the cowardly terror attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims. Pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 22, 2025

In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, Anantnag Police have released a helpline number to assist tourists requiring information.

*24/7 Emergency Help Desk for Tourists –Police Control Room Anantnag*
A dedicated help desk has been established at the Police Control Room Anantnag to assist tourists requiring assistance or information.
Contact Details:
📞 9596777669
01932225870
Whatsapp 9419051940

— Anantnag Police( اننت ناگ پولیس) (@AnantnagPolice) April 22, 2025

According to sources, the number of deaths are likely to rise and vary between 26 and 30. 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has left for Srinagar to take stock of the situation in Jammu & Kashmir in the wake of a terror attack on tourists at Pahalgam, sources said.

Shah headed for Jammu & Kashmir soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to him and asked him to visit the Union Territory, they said.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Kannadigas are among the victims of the terror attack in Kashmir. 

In a post on X, he said: “I strongly condemn the heinous terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, J&K. Kannadigas are among the victims of this shocking incident. Upon receiving the news, I convened an emergency meeting and reviewed the situation with the Chief Secretary and senior police officials. I have also spoken to the Resident Commissioner in Delhi.” 

He added: “Following my directions, two teams – one of senior officers and another of police personnel – have been dispatched to J&K. An adventure team from the Sports Department, led by Commissioner Chethan, is also en route. We are closely monitoring the developments. All necessary support will be extended. Please be assured, the Government of Karnataka stands firmly with those affected.” 

I strongly condemn the heinous terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, J&K. Kannadigas are among the victims of this shocking incident.
Upon receiving the news, I convened an emergency meeting and reviewed the situation with the Chief Secretary and senior police officials. I have…

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 22, 2025

“Please save my husband,” a woman’s bone-chilling wails echoed through the picturesque valleys of Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam after terrorists opened fire at tourists today. At least one person has been confirmed dead in the attack. However, the death count can go up as several tourists were rushed to hospitals with serious injuries.

Distressing visuals doing the rounds on social media showed several women pleading for help. “We were having a snack when a person came and shot my husband,” said one of them, as another, with blood splattered on her face, looked helplessly at the man recording the video.

Several injured people were seen on the ground. A visibly shaken child was also seen with the group of tourists who survived the attack.

Another woman, standing next to a severely injured man, pleaded, “Please save my husband. For god’s sake, save him”.

The heartbreak continues as another cry for help was heard, “Please, someone take him to the hospital. Please, please help.” She was standing next to an injured man with his shirt soaked in blood.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the perpetrators of the Kashmir terror attack will not be spared.

“I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected. Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice…they will not be spared! Their evil agenda will never succeed. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable and it will get even stronger,” he said on X.

I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.
Those behind this heinous act will be brought…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2025

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge condemned the terror attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, saying it is a blot on humanity.

He also said the country’s national security is paramount and urged the central government to take corrective measures.

“I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The entire nation is united in fighting the scourge of cross-border terrorism. These dastardly targeted attacks are a blot on humanity. News reports indicate that precious lives have been lost. On behalf of the Congress party, my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured,” he said on X. 

I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The entire nation is united in fighting the scourge of cross-border terrorism.
These dastardly targeted attacks are a blot on humanity. News reports indicate that precious lives…

— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) April 22, 2025

Injured being shifted to a hospital after terrorists attacked a group of tourists at Pahalgam, in Anantnag district, Jammu & Kashmir on Tuesday. (PTI)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh condemned the terror attack in Kashmir, and said the “dastardly attack on innocent civilians is an act of cowardice and highly reprehensible”.

Deeply anguished by the news of terrorist attack in Pahalgam (Jammu & Kashmir). This dastardly attack on innocent civilians is an act of cowardice and highly reprehensible. My thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families.

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) April 22, 2025

Union Home Minister Amit Shah condemned the attack and said he will shortly leave for Srinagar to hold an urgent security review meeting. 

Anguished by the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. My thoughts are with the family members of the deceased. Those involved in this dastardly act of terror will not be spared, and we will come down heavily on the perpetrators with the harshest consequences.…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 22, 2025

Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also condemned the terror attack in the tourist resort of Pahalgam in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. I assure the people that those behind this despicable attack will not go unpunished. Spoke to the DGP & Security officials. Army and J&K Police teams have rushed to the area and launched search operations.

— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) April 22, 2025

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah termed the attack an “abomination”. “The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased,” he posted on X. 

I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased. I’ve spoken to my colleague @sakinaitoo…

— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) April 22, 2025

Sources said Union Home Minister Amit Shah is currently holding a meeting with top officials over the Kashmir terror attack. The Home Secretary and the Intelligence Bureau chief are also present at the meeting.

According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Union Home Minister Amti Shah and asked him to take stock of the situation. Mr Modi asked the Union Minister to take “suitable measures” and also visit the site, the sources said. 

One tourist was killed and six people were injured in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Tuesday, officials said. The attack took place at Baisaran, a meadow accessible only by foot or ponies, where a group of tourists had gone visiting this morning, the officials added.