New Delhi, April 23, 2025
A wave of grief and fury has swept across the nation after 26 innocent tourists were gunned down in a brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, one of Kashmir’s most cherished tourist destinations. Several others are battling for their lives in critical condition. The tragedy has shaken the conscience of the country.
The attack occurred on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through both the valley and the entire nation. While no official group has taken responsibility, initial media reports suggest possible involvement of militants linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba.
In response to the massacre, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has abruptly ended his Saudi Arabia visit and returned to Delhi for an emergency security briefing. Security forces have launched a massive search operation in and around the region.
Advocate Arsalan Khalid, a vocal voice on national issues, condemned the incident in the strongest terms and demanded direct answers and actions from the government.
“Today, terrorists struck a cowardly blow to our people in Kashmir. How can we call Kashmir ‘terror-free’ when such horrific scenes are unfolding in front of our eyes?” said Advocate Khalid.
“The government has made countless promises of restoring normalcy in the valley—but the ground reality tells a different story. How long will innocent lives pay the price for hollow assurances?”
This is one of the deadliest attacks targeting civilians in the region in recent memory. What makes it even more disturbing is that it was aimed at tourists — individuals who chose Kashmir in the hope of peace and natural beauty, not knowing they would become targets of hatred and violence.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the massacre “an unprecedented and deeply tragic act of terror directed at civilians,” and urged unity in the face of such loss.
Advocate Khalid further emphasized the need for stronger security protocols, intelligence reform, and immediate retaliatory actions against terror outfits.
“This isn’t just a matter of security failure—it’s a moral failure. If our citizens can’t feel safe within our own borders, then what have we achieved? The government owes the nation answers—and more importantly, results.”
As the country mourns the lives lost, demands for justice grow louder. Flags fly at half-mast while citizens from all walks of life light candles in tribute to the victims.
Filed by: Advocate Arsalan Khalid
