While J&K is no stranger terror - what happened on the 22nd in Pahalgam opens another bloody chapter and shows the desperation of Pakistan backed terror groups. Here is why we should not fall into the trap laid by terrorists - while giving a fitting response to the terror masterminds.
The attackers, numbering between four to six, were dressed in military-style uniforms and reportedly posed as policemen before initiating the assault. Survivors recounted that the assailants singled out non-Muslim men, demanding they recite Islamic verses and checking for circumcision to identify their religion. Those who failed these tests were executed at close range.
Among the deceased were 24 Indian tourists from various states, two locals from Jammu and Kashmir, and two foreign tourists from Nepal and the United Arab Emirates. Notably, a 26-year-old Indian Navy officer and an Intelligence Bureau official were also among the victims.
The TRF claimed responsibility for the attack, citing opposition to the Indian government's policies that they allege are altering the region's demographics by settling outsiders in Kashmir.
The attack drew widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia to address the situation, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah traveled to Srinagar to oversee the security response. International leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, U.S. President Donald Trump, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, denounced the attack and expressed solidarity with India.
Security forces have launched a comprehensive manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators, with increased military presence and temporary lockdowns imposed in parts of Pahalgam. The incident has intensified concerns over civilian safety and the ongoing insurgency in the region.