Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 23: India is reeling from shock and grief following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of several innocent tourists on Tuesday. The victims had traveled to the scenic region with their families, seeking peace and leisure, only to face a horrific act of violence.
Veteran actor Anupam Kher took to social media to share a powerful and emotional video expressing outrage and sorrow over the killings. In his message, he condemned the “massacre of Hindus,” voicing that while he feels deep sadness, his anger knows no bounds.
Referring to the painful history of Kashmiri Pandits, Kher drew parallels to the events portrayed in the film The Kashmir Files, highlighting that what some dismissed as propaganda is a mere glimpse into the long-standing suffering of the community.
“The massacre that took place today… they are choosing people based on their religion and killing them. Sometimes words fail. This is one of those times,” Kher said, visibly distraught. He called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure that the perpetrators face a punishment so severe that it deters future acts for “generations to come.”
Kher’s message was echoed by other prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Actor Sonu Sood condemned the “cowardly” attack, stating, “Terrorism should have no place in a civilized world.” Sunny Deol also posted on Instagram, urging global unity against terrorism and standing in support of the victims’ families.
Prime Minister Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, returned to India early and conducted a high-level security meeting at Palam Airport. “Those behind this heinous act will not be spared. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable,” PM Modi stated.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also cut short her overseas trip to return to India in light of the attack.
As security forces including the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police intensify search operations in the Pahalgam region, the government has yet to release an official casualty count.
The incident has sparked national outrage, with candlelight vigils and protests held across the country—in cities such as Baramulla, Srinagar, Poonch, Kupwara, and Jammu. In Khod village of Akhoor, residents gathered to mourn and demand justice, while the Bajrang Dal staged demonstrations in Jammu.
This attack, regarded as one of the most serious acts of terrorism since the 2019 abrogation of Article 370, has unified the country in mourning and in its call for justice.