A day after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed multiple lives and injured many, security forces have launched an intense manhunt to track down the attackers.
The usually serene and tourist-filled region is now gripped by tension, with visuals showing deserted streets, increased police deployment, and tightened security checks. Locals and tourists alike are in shock following what is being described as one of the most targeted attacks against civilians in recent years in the region.
Immediate Response and Aftermath
The attack occurred on Tuesday, targeting a group of tourists, and led to a swift reaction from security personnel and emergency services. Ambulances and security teams reached the spot immediately, aiding the victims and sealing off the area for further investigation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had just returned from his visit to Saudi Arabia, convened a high-level emergency meeting with External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and senior intelligence and military officials.
Tourist Exodus and Public Sentiment
Tourists are now hurriedly leaving the area. Sameer Bhardwaj, a visitor from Delhi, told media:
“We were planning to explore Pahalgam, but the situation is tense. We’ve decided to head back to Delhi. This is extremely unfortunate. Something like this has never happened here before.”
Political Reactions: Conspiracy to Derail Tourism
Condemnations have poured in from political leaders across the spectrum. National Conference leader Shekh Bashir Ahmad called the incident a “conspiracy to paralyze the region’s economy.”
“Jammu and Kashmir thrives on tourism. With the pilgrimage season approaching and tourists returning, this attack is clearly aimed at scaring them off and hurting the economy.”
He urged the public to stay united and vigilant, emphasizing that “terror has no religion” and that the people of the region must not fall prey to such conspiracies.
Call for Jammu Bandh
In response to the attack, several local organizations have called for a Jammu bandh, expressing collective mourning and demanding stronger security guarantees. Commercial activity has been hit, and a state of caution persists across key districts.
Security agencies are continuing combing operations in and around Anantnag and Pahalgam, using drones, sniffer dogs, and intelligence-based tracking. While no group has claimed responsibility yet, officials believe the attack was premeditated and targeted to disrupt peace and tourism.
The government is expected to make an official statement regarding the progress of the investigation and next steps in national security coordination.