In a horrifying act of terror, the serenity of Kashmir was shattered on April 22, 2025, when heavily armed militants opened indiscriminate fire on a group of tourists in Baisaran Valley, near Pahalgam in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The attack left at least 28 tourists dead and over 30 seriously injured, marking one of the deadliest civilian-targeted terror incidents in the region in recent years.
What Happened in Baisaran Valley?
Popularly known as “Mini Switzerland” for its lush green meadows and scenic beauty, Baisaran Valley was bustling with tourists enjoying the spring season. Around midday, gunmen believed to be hiding in nearby forests emerged and began firing indiscriminately at the tourists. The sudden and brutal assault left little room for escape or protection.
Casualties and Identities
Among the 28 confirmed fatalities, the majority were Indian nationals from different states, and two were foreign tourists. Women and children were also among the victims. The injured were airlifted by military helicopters to hospitals in Srinagar and Anantnag, many of them in critical condition.
Who are the Victims
The people who died were from different parts of India, showing how far this tragedy has affected the country:
- Karnataka: Manjunath Rao (Mahaballia Rao), Bharat Bhushan (Sunder Nagar, Bengaluru)
- Maharashtra: Santosh Jaghda (Pune), Kastuba Ganvotav (Pune), Sanjay Lakshman (Thane), Dileep Dasali (Panvel)
- Gujarat: Sumit Parmar and Yatesh Parmar (Bhavnagar), Shaileshbhai H. Himatbhai Kalathia (Surat)
- West Bengal: Bitan Adhikary (US-based TCS engineer), Sameer Guhar (Kolkata)
- Uttar Pradesh: Shubham Dwivedi (Kanpur)
- Odisha: Prashant Kumar Satpathi (Balasore)
- Kerala: N. Ramachandra (Kochi)
- Haryana: Vinay Narwal (Karnal)
- Bihar: Manish Ranjan (Excise Inspector)
- Madhya Pradesh: Sushil Nathyal (Indore)
- Jammu & Kashmir: Syed Adil Hussain Shah (Hapatnard Tehsil Pahalgam)
- Nepal: Sudeep Neupane (Batwali Ropandi)
Who Is Behind the Attack?
A group calling itself “Kashmir Resistance” has claimed responsibility for the massacre, stating it was carried out in opposition to alleged government settlement policies in the Valley. Security agencies are investigating the authenticity of this claim while working to identify and neutralize the attackers.
National and International Reaction
The incident has sparked nationwide grief and anger. Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the attack, saying, “Those responsible for this bloodshed will be brought to justice. Every drop of innocent blood will be avenged.”
Coincidentally, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is currently on an official visit to India, also expressed deep sorrow and condemned the attack as “barbaric and inhumane.” He extended support to the Indian government in its fight against terrorism.
Security Measures and Response
In the aftermath of the attack, the entire Pahalgam region has been placed under high alert. Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police have launched an intensive manhunt in nearby forests to trace the militants. Drone surveillance and checkpoint reinforcements have been increased in tourist-heavy zones.
Impact on Tourism in Kashmir
This attack comes at a time when Kashmir was witnessing a revival in tourism. After years of relative calm, the Valley had started welcoming record numbers of visitors. However, this incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of tourists and the broader implications for Kashmir’s fragile peace.
Conclusion: A Brutal Wake-Up Call
This attack in Baisaran Valley is not just a strike against innocent lives, but a direct blow to the spirit of peace, tourism, and normalcy in Kashmir. It serves as a grim reminder that terrorism continues to threaten the region’s future.
While security operations intensify, there’s also a pressing need for a stronger, multi-layered strategy—not just militarily, but politically and socially—to uproot the ecosystem that sustains such extremism.
The dream of a peaceful and thriving Kashmir can only be achieved if acts like these are met with unwavering resolve and united action.
Tourist Safety Advisory & Guidance
In light of the recent tragic events, tourists planning to visit Kashmir, especially regions like Pahalgam and Baisaran Valley, are strongly advised to stay updated with official government advisories and avoid travel to high-risk areas for the time being. It’s crucial to register with local authorities, travel in groups, and avoid isolated trails or offbeat locations without guides. Emergency helpline numbers, local police contacts, and your hotel’s location should always be kept handy. While the beauty of Kashmir is undeniable, safety must be the top priority until the situation stabilizes. Authorities are working hard to restore normalcy, and your cooperation is essential.
