Pahalgam Terror Attack 2025: 26 Civilians Killed in Brutal Assault on Pilgrims and Tourists in Kashmir Valley

Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir – April 22, 2025 – What began as a peaceful morning in the scenic hill town of Pahalgam quickly turned into one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent memory. At approximately 10:20 AM, a convoy of civilian buses, carrying pilgrims, tourists, and local families, was ambushed by heavily armed terrorists near the Lidder River in Pahalgam, South Kashmir.

The assault, which lasted over 30 minutes, left 26 civilians dead and over 40 injured, including women and children. The victims were mostly from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal, who had traveled to Kashmir during the spring tourist season or as part of religious pilgrimages.

🕵️‍♂️ Modus Operandi of the Attack

According to eyewitnesses and official reports:

• The attackers opened fire using AK-47s and M16 rifles from both sides of the road.
• They lobbed grenades at the first and last vehicles in the convoy, trapping the passengers.
• Gunmen then targeted people trying to flee into the nearby woods.
• A local driver, Ishfaq Ahmad, reportedly helped rescue several children before being killed.

Security agencies have recovered shell casings, grenades of Pakistani origin, and a satellite phone allegedly used by the attackers to communicate with handlers across the Line of Control (LoC).

🧾 Casualties and Medical Response

The wounded were rushed to Anantnag District Hospital and SKIMS, Srinagar. Many sustained shrapnel wounds, burn injuries, and gunshot trauma. Emergency teams worked through the night to stabilize the critically injured.

A mass funeral was held on April 23 with full state honors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep condolences and promised justice.

🛑 Claim of Responsibility

The terrorist group Tehreek-ul-Mujahideen, believed to have backing from Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, released a video claiming responsibility. The group stated that the attack was in retaliation for India’s growing presence in the Kashmir valley.

Indian intelligence agencies, including RAW and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), have traced satellite phone logs and internet metadata confirming cross-border links.

🇮🇳 National Outrage and Political Reactions

The nation erupted in grief and anger. Candlelight vigils were held in multiple cities, including Delhi, Pune, and Kolkata. Social media saw hashtags like #JusticeForPahalgamVictims, #IndiaDemandsRevenge, and #TerrorMustFall trending for days.

Opposition leaders across party lines condemned the attack, while demanding tighter security measures and a more aggressive foreign policy stance.

Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the site on April 23, assuring swift action. Within 24 hours, India announced Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory military strike launched on May 7.

🌐 International Condemnation

World leaders strongly condemned the attack. The United Nations, U.S. Secretary of State, UK Foreign Minister, and the EU Commission all issued statements calling the incident a “cowardly act of terrorism.”

Israel offered intelligence-sharing support, while France extended medical aid to assist with recovery efforts.

🛡️ Security Measures Following the Attack

Following the tragedy:

• Security across Jammu & Kashmir was ramped up with 10,000 additional CRPF personnel deployed.
• All major pilgrim routes, including the upcoming Amarnath Yatra corridor, were placed under 24/7 drone surveillance.
• The Pahalgam belt was declared a “Red Zone” temporarily to conduct anti-terror operations.

📚 A Dark Reminder for India

The Pahalgam attack has become a tragic reminder that, even after years of counter-insurgency operations, militant networks persist in the region. Analysts suggest this attack aimed not only to instill fear but also to disrupt the booming tourism sector in Kashmir, which was witnessing a resurgence after COVID-19.