A devastating terror attack in the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam, Anantnag district, has left 26 civilians dead and over a dozen injured. The attack, which took place late Monday evening, targeted a bus carrying tourists, many of whom were returning from a religious pilgrimage.
In This Article:
What Happened in Pahalgam?
According to eyewitnesses and security officials, the bus was ambushed near the Langanbal area by heavily armed militants who opened indiscriminate fire. Panic ensued as the driver lost control and the vehicle overturned. Initial reports suggest that the bus was not part of a security convoy and had deviated from the recommended route.
- Time of Incident: Approximately 7:10 PM IST
- Casualties: 26 killed, 14 injured (official figures)
- Attackers: Suspected TRF (The Resistance Front) operatives
- Response: Emergency services, military reinforcement, intelligence probe underway
Who Is Behind the Attack?
Security agencies have linked the banned terrorist outfit The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow group of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), to the attack. TRF has claimed responsibility through a Telegram channel. Investigators believe that two Kashmiri-origin militants who crossed into Pakistan in 2018 may have played a role in executing the ambush.
About The Resistance Front (TRF)
- Formed: 2019, post-Article 370 abrogation
- Affiliation: Proxy group for Lashkar-e-Taiba
- Ban: Declared a terrorist organization under UAPA in 2023
- Modus operandi: Targeted killings, soft civilian targets, online radicalization campaigns
Who Are the Masterminds?
Preliminary intelligence inputs point to Saifullah Kasuri and Abu Musa, high-ranking TRF operatives, as the possible masterminds. Both are believed to be operating from across the Line of Control (LoC) under the protection of Pakistani handlers.
- Saifullah Kasuri: Suspected to be involved in recruitment and planning
- Abu Musa: Known for coordinating attacks on soft targets in Kashmir Valley
National and Political Reaction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack in the strongest terms, calling it “an act of cowardice” and promised justice. Union Home Minister Amit Shah held an emergency meeting with top officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Intelligence Bureau (IB), and NIA.
Opposition leaders, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, also expressed grief and called for accountability and a review of the region’s security strategy.
Ground Response and Security Operations
Security forces have launched a massive cordon-and-search operation across Anantnag and neighboring districts. Multiple checkpoints have been set up and surveillance intensified. The Amarnath Yatra route, though weeks away from commencement, is under high alert.
NIA and J&K Police in Action
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has officially taken over the probe. Forensic teams have collected shell casings and recovered a terror module manual near the site.
Tourist Industry in Shock
Pahalgam, known for its scenic beauty, was witnessing a revival in tourism post-COVID and political normalization efforts. This incident has caused widespread cancellations and panic among prospective visitors.
Tourism officials confirmed that local businesses have shut down temporarily in mourning. Efforts are being made to ensure tourist safety and confidence going forward.
The Broader Context – Pakistan’s Role?
India has long accused Pakistan of sponsoring cross-border terrorism, and this attack adds fresh fuel to the fire. While Islamabad has denied involvement, Indian intelligence has pointed to ISI-backed training camps in PoK being used by TRF recruits.
International pressure may now mount on Pakistan as global bodies and foreign governments, including the United States and European Union, seek clarity.
A Call for Unity and Vigilance
As the nation reels from this horrifying act of violence, calls for unity, vigilance, and strategic reform are louder than ever. Political parties across the spectrum have urged citizens not to give in to fear but to stand in solidarity with the victims.
Funeral rites for several victims have been held with full state honors. Psychological counseling has been offered to survivors and affected families.
Final Thoughts
The Pahalgam terror attack is a grim reminder that even as peace efforts grow, the shadow of terrorism continues to haunt Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities remain vigilant, and investigations are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.
By – Nikita
