Despite the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, tourists continued to arrive in Bhaderwah on Tuesday, expressing both condemnation for the attack and their unwavering love for the scenic beauty of Jammu and Kashmir.
In interactions with media, many tourists vowed not to be intimidated by the violence, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepalese citizen in a Pakistan-backed attack at the popular Baisaran meadow.
“The attack that happened a few days ago in Pahalgam, the act done by Pakistan, is very shameful, and our government will give them a befitting reply. Their aim behind attacking tourists was to reduce tourism here. But this will not happen. Kashmir was ours, is ours, and will remain ours. This motherland is ours; we have come here and will continue to come. We feel safe here. There is nothing to fear, and the Indian Army is here. The people here are very good, there is no problem here…”, said a tourist.
Another tourist noted the importance of continuing to visit the valley as a show of unity and resilience:
“Some people told us not to visit, but we refused to do this because it was just a show that we are scared… We will continue visiting these places and want to show that we are strong. We hope the country gives a befitting reply,” the tourist added.
Another visitor reaffirmed his faith in Kashmir’s identity as part of India:
“Kashmir is ours, and whatever happened will not stop us from visiting. We are Indians, and we will not be scared of anything. This is heaven for us.”
Meanwhile, Rishi Bhatt, a tourist from Ahmedabad, who was ziplining in Pahalgam during the attack, praised the Indian Army for its swift response.
“Army covered Pahalgam within 20–25 minutes. They gave cover to all the tourists within 18–20 minutes… We felt safe once the Army gave us cover. I am grateful to the Indian Army,” Bhatt said while speaking to media.
“We soon found the Indian Army personnel before us. They gave cover to all the tourists,” he added.
Even as tensions remain high in the region, the spirit of the Indian tourists in Bhaderwah and elsewhere in Kashmir reflects a collective defiance against fear, and a powerful endorsement of national unity and security.