Tragedy Strikes as 24 Killed in Tourist Attack in Jammu and Kashmir

In a devastating act of violence, at least 24 lives were lost when gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. The attack, which occurred in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination about 90 kilometers from Srinagar, left the region in shock and mourning.

The horrifying incident unfolded when gunmen ambushed a group of tourists, causing widespread panic. A local tour guide, Waheed, who reached the scene soon after hearing the gunfire, described the chaotic aftermath. He recounted witnessing several people lying motionless on the ground, some appearing to be dead. “I transported the wounded on horseback to safety,” Waheed said, his voice reflecting the gravity of the situation.

None claims responsibility for attack on tourist attraction in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir

While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the police have confirmed that at least 24 people were killed, though the exact death toll is still being verified. The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in the region, which has been under intense military scrutiny since India revoked Kashmir’s special status in 2019.

Indian authorities have condemned the attack, with Interior Minister Amit Shah announcing his immediate departure for the site. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the assault as an “abomination,” highlighting the scale of the tragedy as one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent years. “The perpetrators are animals, inhuman and worthy of contempt,” he added.

The violence also follows earlier skirmishes this month between security forces and armed militants that led to six deaths, including four officers. This latest attack adds to growing concerns over the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, where tensions remain high after the controversial revocation of its semi-autonomous status.

The region’s political leaders have all voiced their condemnation of the attack. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti called the assault on tourists “cowardly” and expressed her sorrow for the victims. Medics at a nearby hospital in Anantnag confirmed receiving several wounded victims, including those with severe gunshot wounds.