“Pahalgam Terror Horror: 27 Killed After Religion Check”

Terror Strikes Pahalgam: 27 Killed in Targeted Attack on Tourists, Hyderabad IB Officer Among Victims

Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir | April 22, 2025 — In a horrific act of terrorism, 27 people, including foreign nationals and a Hyderabad-based Intelligence Bureau officer, were killed when militants opened indiscriminate fire on tourists at the popular hill destination of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Tuesday. More than 20 others were injured in what is being described as the deadliest attack in Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama bombing.

Targeted Killing on Religious Grounds

The attack occurred around 2:30 p.m. on the Baisaran plain, a picturesque meadow located approximately 5 kilometers from Pahalgam, often referred to as “Mini Switzerland” for its scenic beauty. According to eyewitnesses, two to three terrorists dressed in military uniforms approached a group of about 40 tourists, asked their names and religious affiliations, and then opened fire, specifically targeting Hindus.

The massacre has shocked the nation and cast a pall of gloom over the peaceful valley, which has long been a symbol of Kashmir’s natural allure and cultural harmony.

The Resistance Front Claims Responsibility

Terror outfit The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be a shadow group of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the carnage. After executing the attack, the militants reportedly disappeared into the dense forests surrounding the Baisaran area.

In response, a massive counter-terror operation has been launched by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and specialized para commando units. Helicopters were used to airlift the critically injured to Srinagar’s tertiary hospitals after initial treatment at Pahalgam Hospital.

Hyderabad IB Officer Martyred

One of the most heartbreaking casualties of the attack was Manish Ranjan, an officer with the Intelligence Bureau based in Hyderabad. His death has sent shockwaves through the intelligence community and the city of Hyderabad, where his family and friends received the devastating news via social media platform X.

Among the other victims were two foreign tourists — one from Israel and another from Italy — and two locals from Kashmir. Businessman Manjunath Rao from Shivamogga in Karnataka also lost his life, while his wife, Pallavi, sustained serious injuries and is under intensive care.

Victims also hailed from states such as Odisha, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, underscoring the pan-Indian impact of the tragedy.

Nationwide Mourning and Political Condemnation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, immediately returned to New Delhi upon learning of the incident. Condemning the attack in the strongest terms, he vowed that those behind the atrocity would be brought to justice.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Srinagar to assess the security situation and oversee the ongoing anti-terror operations. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences and called the incident an “unexpected and deeply tragic event.”

Prominent political leaders including former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and MP Rahul Gandhi also condemned the massacre and called for enhanced security measures in the region.

Emergency Measures and Travel Assistance

The Anantnag district administration has activated a 24×7 emergency helpline to assist families of the victims. In coordination with the Civil Aviation Ministry, Air India and IndiGo have arranged additional flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai to facilitate travel for survivors and relatives.

Security has been significantly heightened across the Union Territory. Medical teams continue to work round-the-clock to treat the injured, while central intelligence agencies are investigating the planning and execution of the attack.

Nation in Grief, Vows Resolve Against Terror

The barbaric attack has united the country in grief and outrage. Citizens across India have held candlelight vigils and paid tribute to the victims. The Centre, along with the Jammu and Kashmir government, has reiterated its commitment to eliminating terrorism from the region and ensuring the safety of all citizens.

As the nation mourns, security forces remain on high alert to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are apprehended and justice is served.