pahalgam attack news

The 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack stands as one of the most devastating assaults on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. On April 22, 2025, five armed militants targeted tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 28 civilians and injuries to 20 others. (2025 Pahalgam attack)
  
Here are some notable and poignant aspects of the incident: 

1. Targeted Religious Identification

Survivors recounted that the attackers segregated victims based on religion. They reportedly asked individuals to recite the Islamic kalima and checked for circumcision to identify non-Muslims. Those unable to comply were executed at close range. Among the victims was a Christian man from Madhya Pradesh who was killed after revealing his faith. (2025 Pahalgam attack)
2. Heroic Act by a Local Pony Operator

Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a local Muslim pony operator, attempted to confront the attackers to protect the tourists. He was shot and killed during his brave intervention. His actions have been widely lauded, with many considering him a hero who sacrificed his life to save others. (2025 Pahalgam attack)
3. Attack Captured on Video

A tourist from Ahmedabad inadvertently recorded part of the attack while on a zip line. In the footage, he is seen smiling, unaware of the unfolding tragedy below. Gunfire is audible during his 53-second ride, and by the end, a tourist can be seen falling, likely shot. (Man smiles on zip line, oblivious to horror) 

4. Initial Claim and Retraction of Responsibility

The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility for the attack, citing opposition to Indian government policies in Kashmir. However, four days later, TRF retracted its claim, alleging a communication breach and accusing Indian intelligence operatives of involvement. (2025 Pahalgam attack)
5. Escalation of India-Pakistan Tensions

The attack significantly heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, leading to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, expulsion of Pakistani diplomats, and closure of borders. Pakistan denied the allegations and retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement, restricting trade, and closing its airspace. Border skirmishes between Indian and Pakistani forces began shortly after the attack. (Dozens of tourist resorts in Indian-controlled Kashmir are closed after deadly attack, 2025 Pahalgam attack)
6. Advanced Planning and Equipment

Investigations revealed that the attackers were equipped with M4 carbines and AK-47s and wore military-style uniforms. They had scouted multiple areas before executing the attack, indicating a high level of planning and coordination. (2025 Pahalgam attack, NIA Uncovers Details on Pahalgam Terror Attack - YouTube) 

7. Impact on Tourism

In the aftermath of the attack, authorities closed 48 of the region’s 87 government-authorized tourist resorts as a precautionary measure. The violence led to a sharp decline in tourism, with over a million cancellations reported, threatening an industry that had recently seen record numbers of visitors. (Dozens of tourist resorts in Indian-controlled Kashmir are closed after deadly attack)

This tragic event not only resulted in the loss of innocent lives but also had far-reaching implications for regional stability and international relations.

For a detailed report on the investigation, you may find this video informative:

(NIA Uncovers Details on Pahalgam Terror Attack)