A peaceful resort town in Kashmir turned into a scene of horror when four armed militants stormed a tourist meadow in Baisaran, opening fire on civilians and killing at least 24 people while injuring dozens more, many critically, according to Indian authorities.
The attackers, described as militants opposing India’s control over the disputed region, targeted Indian tourists at close range in what police have labeled one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent years. “My husband was shot in the head!” one distraught woman cried, according to the Times of India.
The massacre occurred in Baisaran, a scenic meadow near the popular Himalayan town of Pahalgam, often called the “Switzerland of India.” The tranquil setting, known for attracting visitors from across the country, quickly descended into chaos as the gunmen opened fire indiscriminately.
“This attack is much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years,” wrote Omar Abdullah, the region’s political leader, on social media.
So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the massacre. Indian security forces have launched a nationwide manhunt for the assailants, who reportedly fled into the surrounding forest following the attack.
In the wake of the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the assault as a “heinous act of terror” and vowed swift justice: “Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice… they will not be spared! Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable.”
Home Minister Amit Shah echoed the sentiment, promising “the harshest consequences” for the perpetrators.
The attack occurred while U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance was visiting India. In a statement, he called the massacre a “devastating terrorist attack” and expressed solidarity with the Indian people: “Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack.”
Kashmir has long been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan, and since 1989, separatist militants have fought against Indian rule in the region. While attacks on military targets are common, assaults on civilians, particularly tourists, mark a grim escalation in tactics.
Authorities have tightened security across the region and urged vigilance, as investigations continue into who orchestrated the brutal ambush.