Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a two-day visit to Jeddah, has strongly denounced the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that left one tourist dead and twelve others injured. Expressing his condolences to the victim’s family, he assured the nation that those responsible for the attack will face the full force of justice.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister said, “I condemn the terror assault in Pahalgam in the strongest terms. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those who are injured recover soon. All necessary support is being provided.”
He further added, “The perpetrators of this horrific crime will not escape justice. Their cruel intentions will never succeed. Our commitment to fighting terrorism is unwavering and only grows stronger.”
Earlier in the day, PM Modi had spoken with Union Home Minister Amit Shah by phone, directing him to ensure comprehensive action and to visit the affected area.
The shooting unfolded at approximately 2:30 PM on Tuesday when armed militants, disguised in military attire, opened fire on tourists at Baisaran meadow—a remote, scenic location accessible only on foot or by pony.
The Resistance Front, linked to the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the strike.
Security forces responded swiftly to the scene after the sound of gunfire was reported. Emergency evacuation efforts began immediately. According to reports, helicopters were deployed, and several injured tourists were brought down from the hills by local pony operators.
Home Minister Amit Shah chaired an emergency strategy session in New Delhi soon after the attack. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Intelligence Bureau, and the Jammu and Kashmir administration joined the meeting, with local authorities participating virtually. Shah is expected to arrive in Srinagar shortly to personally assess the security situation.
In a statement posted online, Shah wrote, “Deeply pained by the attack on tourists in Pahalgam. My sympathies go out to the family of the deceased. This barbaric act will not go unpunished. We will act with the harshest resolve to ensure justice. I have briefed the Prime Minister and will head to Srinagar for a detailed security review.”
Eyewitness accounts from the meadow described scenes of panic and heartbreak. A tearful woman pleaded for help for her wounded husband, while another recounted a chilling moment where the attacker reportedly questioned her husband's faith before shooting him.