Pahalgam (Jammu and Kashmir) [India]: In the aftermath of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 26 tourists were killed, the popular tourist destination in Kashmir has witnessed a notable decline in footfall. However, visitors who arrived as per prior plans reported tight security arrangements and said they felt safe and reassured by the visible army presence.
Many tourists expressed initial hesitation about travelling, but changed their minds after seeing the ground situation.
Key Highlights:
- Security Strengthened: Multiple tourists confirmed heavy deployment of security personnel in and around Pahalgam and along routes from Srinagar.
- Tourist Sentiments:
- Mithu Maulik from West Bengal: “We were initially scared but feel absolutely safe now. There’s no fear.”
- Keval Patel, a child from Ahmedabad: “Some people cancelled their trips, but we came. Security is very tight. We feel safe.”
- Maumita Saha, another tourist: “We visited multiple places including Kargil, and had a great time. Pahalgam feels safe, although a few tourist spots are closed.”
- Chilling Eyewitness Account: Keval Patel recounted what he heard about the attack in Baisaran meadows, where terrorists allegedly separated tourists by religion before opening fire, targeting Hindus and non-practicing Muslims.
- Government Response:
Following the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired high-level security meetings involving Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval, CDS General Anil Chauhan, and the chiefs of the armed forces. - National Security Strategy: Government sources revealed PM Modi reaffirmed India’s resolve to eliminate terrorism and expressed full confidence in the armed forces’ capabilities.
Background:
This incident is considered one of the deadliest attacks in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The Pahalgam massacre shocked the nation, prompting strong diplomatic and military responses, including restrictions on Pakistani nationals and the suspension of provisions under the Indus Waters Treaty.