26 killed in terrorist attack in J&K's Pahalgam
What's the story
As many as 26 people have been killed in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, a popular tourist spot in Jammu and Kashmir, NDTV reported, citing sources. Per reports, the attackers fired at the upper meadows of Baisaran Valley, which can be reached only by foot or horseback. The terrorists were reportedly camouflaged, suggesting a planned assault. Military choppers have since been deployed to evacuate those injured in the attack.
Rescue efforts
Injured tourists transported to hospital
Videos from the site showed several of them shaken by the brutal attack. Among the victims were women and elderly people. "My husband was shot in the head while seven others were also injured in the attack," a woman survivor told PTI over the phone. The attack came during Pahalgam's peak tourist season, just as registration for this year's Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage was ongoing. The pilgrimage is set to begin on July 3.
Official response
Officials condemn attack on tourists
Shortly after the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly called Home Minister Amit Shah and instructed him to take all necessary precautions and visit the site. According to reports, Shah also arranged a meeting at his Delhi home, which was attended by Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Deka and Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan. CRPF Chief Gyanendra Pratap Singh, J&K Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, and other Army officials also attended the meeting via video conferencing.
Tweet
Perpetrators will have to pay a very heavy price: Sinha
Later, in a tweet, Sinha asserted that the "perpetrators of Pahalgam attack will have to pay a very heavy price for their heinous act." Among the victims was a realtor from Shivamogga district in Karnataka who was reportedly shot dead in front of his wife and son. He has been identified as Manjunath Rao. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has convened an urgent meeting with key officials to gather information, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said.