Terrorist attack in Pahalgam: 26 tourists killed, PM Modi said – “Those responsible for violence will get strict punishment”
Pahalgam (Jammu & Kashmir): Once again, a bloody Holi was played in the beautiful valleys of Jammu-Kashmir. In Baisaran valley, which people fondly call ‘Mini Switzerland’, terrorists carried out a vicious attack on Tuesday afternoon at around 3 o’clock. In this attack, at least 26 innocent tourists lost their lives, while 12 people were seriously injured. The gunmen descended from the mountains and started firing without any warning, the casualties included women and children.
Details of the attack: Sudden gunfire in Baisaran Valley
Baisaran valley, which is a popular tourist spot some distance from Pahalgam, is often visited by people to enjoy the greenery and nature. But today this place echoed with the sound of gunfire. According to the administration, some terrorists came down from the mountainous areas and opened fire without any reason. This place was full of tourists, most of whom had come from other states.
Immediately after the incident, security forces surrounded the area and a massive anti-terror operation was launched. Local people also did not hesitate to help – some of the injured were brought down using boats while others were evacuated using helicopters.
Prime Minister Modi’s strong message: “Stop dreaming of breaking our resolve”
Reacting immediately to this horrific incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a strong statement from Saudi Arabia. He said, “I strongly condemn the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. I express my condolences to those who lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. Those responsible for this incident will not be spared. Their evil intention will never succeed. India’s fight against terrorism is on, and now it will be stronger.”
PM Modi immediately spoke to Home Minister Amit Shah and asked him to send him to Kashmir. He said that the government will take every possible step to maintain peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.
Amit Shah’s reaction: “Strictest action will be taken”
Home Minister Amit Shah also reacted immediately after this attack. He wrote on Twitter (first), “This attack on tourists in Pahalgam is extremely sad and deep. My full condolences are with the families of those killed. Those responsible for this incident will not be spared, and strictest action will be taken against them.”
Amit Shah said that he talked to PM Modi through video conferencing and also reviewed the security with all the agencies. He is going to Srinagar immediately where a high-level security meeting will be held.
Security questioned again in Jammu-Kashmir
This incident has again raised questions on the security system of Jammu-Kashmir, especially at a time when this state is trying to show a new face through tourism. This attack, which happened just a few days before the start of Amarnath Yatra, is a matter of concern.
Many people had come to visit the valley at the time of the incident. According to the administration, some people have also recorded video footage which is being used in the investigation. NDRF and CRPF soldiers have also reached there.
Omar Abdullah’s statement: “This attack is unnatural and despicable”
Former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir Omar Abdullah described this incident as “an abomination” i.e. a gruesome and horrific incident. He said, “This attack is on our guests. This is unnatural. No one can support this. I am deeply saddened. My full condolences are with the families of those killed
This terrorist attack has shocked the entire country. While on one hand Kashmir was trying to move forward on the path of new development, on the other hand such attacks remind us once again that the end of terrorism is yet to come. The public is angry and also in pain, but the government has said – “Whoever is behind this incident will not be spared.”
After this barbaric attack, there is a wave of grief across the country, but along with it there is also a voice – “We will never bow down in front of terrorism!”