Over 20 people, mostly tourists were killed on Tuesday in a terrorist attack in the Baisaran Valley, a scenic area in Pahalgam, Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Gunshots were reported in the region—often dubbed “mini-Switzerland” for its natural beauty—prompting swift deployment of security forces.
The remote, high-altitude location is accessible only by foot or horseback, complicating rescue operations. Authorities deployed a helicopter for evacuation, while locals used ponies to help bring the injured down from the meadows. At least 12 tourists were admitted to Pahalgam hospital, with doctors confirming that all were in stable condition.
In response to the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a visit to Saudi Arabia, spoke with Union home minister Amit Shah and directed him to ensure all necessary measures are taken. The PM also asked Shah to visit the attack site to oversee the situation firsthand.
