SRINAGAR, Kashmir — What was meant to be a peaceful getaway turned into an unspeakable nightmare on Tuesday as at least 26 innocent tourists lost their lives in a brutal gun attack at a picturesque resort near Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir.
The victims, mostly Indian visitors seeking the calm beauty of the mountains, were shot at close range by a group of armed men. Over three dozen others, some critically wounded, are fighting for their lives in nearby hospitals.
For the families, the joy of travel has turned to grief, confusion, and heartache. These were people who came with hopes of breathing in fresh mountain air, snapping photos among pine trees, and creating memories — not being caught in the crossfire of a decades-long conflict.
“This is not just a terror attack, it’s a devastating blow to every family that lost a loved one, to every Kashmiri who dreams of peace,” said one tearful local, who helped carry the injured to safety.
Indian authorities labeled the attack an act of terrorism, blaming militants opposed to Indian rule in Kashmir. The assailants vanished into the thick forest after the assault, sparking a massive manhunt.
“This is the worst attack on civilians in years,” said Omar Abdullah, a senior political figure in the region. “We must not let fear take away the essence of what Kashmir truly stands for — peace, hospitality, and resilience.”
The attack happened at Baisaran meadow, a lush green paradise just 5 kilometers from Pahalgam, a place where children laugh, ponies trot, and tourists marvel at nature’s wonders. But yesterday, the same meadow saw bloodshed, screams, and chaos.
Condolences poured in from around the world. India’s Home Minister Amit Shah promised strong action and rushed to Srinagar to assess the situation. Prime Minister Modi is cutting his overseas visit short to return home.
Religious leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq condemned the killings, calling the attack “cowardly” and saying it goes against the very soul of Kashmiri tradition, which embraces guests with warmth and respect.
Even U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is currently visiting India, expressed sorrow, calling the incident a “devastating terrorist attack.” Leaders from across the globe, including the U.S., Russia, and Italy, condemned the violence and voiced support for India.
For decades, Kashmir has been caught between political claims, military control, and the cries of its people — many of whom only wish for peace. While violence has shifted to more remote regions in recent years, tourists had remained largely untouched.
That illusion of safety has now been shattered.
The Pahalgam attack echoes an old wound, one that the world can no longer afford to ignore. Beyond borders and politics, 26 people — fathers, mothers, friends, children — are gone.
And Kashmir mourns with them.
