A shocking terror attack in Anantnag district kills 28, including tourists from multiple states. TRF takes credit. Security heightened across Jammu and Kashmir.
In one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years, at least 28 civilians, predominantly tourists, were killed and over 36 injured when gunmen opened fire at Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam in Anantnag district on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the massacre, citing opposition to India’s settlement policies in the region. AP News+2Wikipedia+2The Guardian+2
The Attack
The assault occurred around 1:00 PM IST when four heavily armed militants emerged from the dense pine forests surrounding Baisaran, a scenic meadow often referred to as “mini Switzerland,” accessible only by foot or pony. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic as the assailants opened fire indiscriminately on tourists who were picnicking and enjoying pony rides. Distressing visuals circulated on social media showed victims lying motionless on the ground, with survivors, including women and children, pleading for help.
Casualties
Among the 28 confirmed fatalities were 22 Indian nationals from states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, two local residents from Jammu and Kashmir, and two foreign tourists—one from the United Arab Emirates and another from Nepal. The injured, numbering over 36, include individuals from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. The death toll is expected to rise as several victims remain in critical condition. Wikipedia+1The Guardian+1
Government Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, cut short his trip and is scheduled to return to India early Wednesday. He condemned the attack, labeling it a “dastardly and inhuman act,” and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice. Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Srinagar on Tuesday evening to assess the situation and coordinate the security response. He held meetings with top officials, including the Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police, to strategize a comprehensive counter-terrorism plan. Wikipedia
International Condemnation
The attack has drawn widespread international condemnation. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his condolences and stated that he would speak with Prime Minister Modi to offer support. Vice President JD Vance, who was on a four-day visit to India, also condemned the attack, emphasizing solidarity with India in combating terrorism. Leaders from countries including France, Israel, Italy, and Russia have also denounced the attack and extended their sympathies to the victims’ families. AP Newsreuters.com+2Wikipedia+2AP News+2
Background and Implications
This attack is the most significant on civilians in the Kashmir Valley since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, which granted special autonomy to the region. The TRF, in its claim of responsibility, cited opposition to the Indian government’s settlement policies, alleging that the influx of over 85,000 non-local settlers was altering the region’s demographics. The incident underscores the persistent volatility in Kashmir and raises concerns about the safety of tourists and the broader implications for regional stability. The GuardianThe Guardian+2reuters.com+2Wikipedia+2Wikipedia
Ongoing Investigation
Security forces have launched a massive manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators. Military helicopters were deployed to evacuate the injured from the remote meadow, and a helpline has been established to assist affected families. The government has also increased security measures across the region to prevent further incidents. Wikipedia
As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, the attack serves as a grim reminder of the challenges that persist in ensuring peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.
