SRINAGAR, India — In a devastating act of terrorism, 26 people were killed in Kashmir’s Baisaran Valley, a top tourist destination near Pahalgam, turning a tranquil hilltop known as “Mini Switzerland” into a scene of tragedy. The gunmen separated men from women and children before executing the men at close range, according to survivors and officials.
Attack in Baisaran – A Day of Horror
On Tuesday, around 1,000 tourists and 300 local workers were present in the lush Baisaran Valley when three militants armed with assault rifles launched the attack. Eyewitnesses described how the attackers, dressed in traditional attire, roamed across the grasslands, firing over 60 rounds.
Survivors say the gunmen ordered the men to recite Islamic verses. Those who couldn’t were shot dead.
Debasish Bhattacharyya, a Hindu professor from Assam, survived by chanting the verses along with others. “I knew the words and, at that moment, it was probably the only way to save our lives. Those who failed, were killed,” he told Reuters.
Some Killed at Eateries, Others Taken into Forests
Security sources confirmed that victims were targeted in multiple areas, including forest patches and open-air eateries within the valley. Some were dragged away and killed execution-style.
Among the victims was Adil Hussain Shah, a local pony operator. Another victim, Prashant Satpathy from Odisha, was fatally shot just after a family zipline ride, his wife recounted.
Suspects Identified in Kashmir Attack
Security agencies have released sketches of the three suspected terrorists involved in the brutal massacre at Baisaran Valley.
The attackers have been identified as:
▪️ Asif Fauji (Code name: Asif)
▪️ Suleman Shah (Code name: Moosa)
▪️ Abu Talha (Code name: Yunus)
Global Condemnation from World Leaders
The attack has drawn widespread international condemnation.
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Donald Trump, former U.S. President, posted on Truth Social: “The United States stands strong with India against terrorism.”
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Vladimir Putin and EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen also expressed strong condemnation, labeling the act as “inhuman” and “barbaric.”
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his Saudi Arabia trip and returned to India, vowing justice: “Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakeable.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the attack site early Wednesday and chaired a high-level security meeting in Srinagar. He assured enhanced security in tourist areas and promised justice for the victims and their families.
The Indian army and intelligence agencies have launched a coordinated manhunt to capture or neutralize the attackers, one of whom was reportedly wearing a bodycam during the assault.
From Adventure to Agony
Known for its serene landscape, Baisaran is 4 km from Pahalgam and offers trekking, zorbing, and ziplining activities. It also serves as a base for trekkers heading to Tulian Lake. The brutal incident has cast a long shadow over India’s tourism industry, particularly in Kashmir, where hopes for peace had slowly been growing.
As the nation mourns, political leaders, citizens, and the global community stand in solidarity with the victims and their families. Increased vigilance, a bolstered security presence, and renewed counter-terrorism strategies are expected in the coming days.
A day after the killings in Pahalgam, candlelight protests continue across Kashmir. The peaceful demonstrations reflect the collective pain — and unwavering spirit — of the people of Kashmir.