people lost their lives in a brutal assault on tourists in the Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam on Tuesday, April 22.
Eyewitnesses described a nightmarish scene as six armed terrorists dressed in Army fatigues opened fire at close range, reportedly targeting victims based on religion. Survivors told The Times of India that the assailants asked people to recite Islamic verses before shooting them—a chilling detail that has sparked nationwide outrage.
Here are the 10 latest developments in the aftermath of the horrific attack:
- Modi Cuts Short Saudi Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew back to Delhi on April 23, truncating his diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia. He immediately chaired a high-level security review, signaling the gravity of the attack. - PM Modi Issues Strong Condemnation
Taking to social media, PM Modi said: “Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones… All possible assistance is being provided.” He directed Home Minister Amit Shah to visit the site and ensure strict and swift action. - Sitharaman Returns from US Tour
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman preponed her 10-day official visit to the US and Peru, arriving in Delhi early Wednesday morning to take part in the central government’s response to the crisis. - Rahul Gandhi Reaches Out
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he personally spoke with Home Minister Amit Shah and J&K CM Omar Abdullah. “The victims’ families deserve justice and our fullest support,” he said. - Congress Demands Accountability
The Congress party has called for an all-party meeting, accusing the Centre of failure. “The Centre must stop making hollow claims and take accountability,” said party spokespersons in a strongly worded statement. - Massive Manhunt Underway
A region-wide manhunt has been launched to nab the six terrorists. The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that “all efforts [are] focused on justice.” - Jammu & Kashmir on High Alert
Security has been heightened across towns and tourist hotspots. Surveillance, checkpoints, and patrols have increased to prevent further violence and reassure the public. - Infiltration Foiled in Uri Sector
In a separate incident, the Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Baramulla’s Uri sector on the same day. “Alert troops challenged the terrorists, triggering a gunfight,” the Chinar Corps posted on X. - Bandh Call Gains Ground
The JKNC, PDP, and civil society groups backed a bandh on April 23, protesting the attack. “This attack isn’t just on a few—it’s an attack on all of us,” PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti posted on X. - Tourists Flee Amid Chaos
Panic has gripped Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam, as tourists scramble to flee. Landslides along the Jammu highway have further hampered evacuation efforts, leaving many stranded in the Valley.
