Pahalgam attack key updates: 26 killed in J-K's deadliest strike in recent times, PM Modi heads back to India

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said, "Deeply saddened by the terrorist attack that occurred today in India, which caused numerous victims. Italy expresses its closeness to the families affected, the injured, the Government and all the Indian people."

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, "I am deeply saddened and devastated, to learn of the dastardly terror attack on innocent tourists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region. Resorting to violence is an act of cowardice and needs to be condemned in no uncertain terms. I understand the pain of families who have lost their loved ones and extend my deepest condolences to them. I also pray for the complete and speedy recovery of those injured. The entire country stands united against terror. We share a deep resolve to defeat these divisive and violent forces. We need to work to build the broad social consensus against terror that existed in the past. It is imperative that the safety of our citizens is ensured and peace is restored to the region."

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed her anguish over a terror attack on tourists in Kashmir's Pahalgam on Tuesday, asserting the "cowardly" act will not go unanswered.  "Deeply anguished to learn about the terrorist attacks on tourists in Kashmir's Pahalgam. My thoughts are with those who lost their close ones and prayers for the swift recovery of those injured. These cowardly, barbaric attacks will not go unanswered," Gupta said in a post on X.

In the wake of the terrorist attack in Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia. He skipped the official dinner hosted by the Saudi government and will now return to India tonight. Originally scheduled to arrive tomorrow night, the Prime Minister will now reach India early on Wednesday morning.

US President Donald Trump posts, "Deeply disturbing news out of Kashmir. The United States stands strong with India against Terrorism. We pray for the souls of those lost, and for the recovery of the injured. Prime Minister Modi, and the incredible people of India, have our full support and deepest sympathies. Our hearts are with you all!"

Indian Army in a statement said, "On 22 April 2025, in a cowardly act of violence, terrorists opened fire on innocent tourists and locals. In the immediate aftermath, Joint Forces are overseeing the situation. Medical teams were swiftly mobilised and casualty evacuation commenced. A Joint Search Operation has been launched by the Army  and JKP in the general area of Baisran, Pahalgam, Anantnag. The search operation is currently in progress, with all efforts focused on bringing the attackers to justice."

President of Russia Vladimir Putin extended condolences to President of India Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi over the tragic consequences of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam,  Jammu and Kashmir. 

"Kindly accept the sincere condolences over the tragic consequences of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam whose victims were civilians — citizens of various countries. This brutal crime has no justification whatsoever. We expect that its organizers and perpetrators will face a deserved punishment. I would like to reiterate our commitment to further increasing cooperation with Indian partners in fighting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Please convey words of sincere sympathy and support to the near and dear ones of the deceased as well as wishes for a speedy recovery of all injured," said Puitn. 

In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, Mumbai Police has issued instructions to the in-charges of all 94 police stations in the city and all 12 zonal DCPs to remain alert.

The list of 16 people killed in the attack has also been released. Names of the 10 injured have also been released.

Sequence of the incident: 

• As per the sources, terrorists Came Down from the Hills around Came Down at 2:30
• Asked for the identification of the tourists.
• They separated the Women and children on one side and men on the other.
• Empty cartridges of AK 47 and Armored Bullets Steel Bullets.
• his area doesn't come under Army, because of Civilian presence.
• One Army personnel saved lives, and told civilians to run for cover.
• Firing continued for five minutes.
• Total Casualty 26

(Input: Manish Prasad) 

One Indian Navy Officer, Lieutenant Vinay Narwal (aged 26 years), who was posted in Kochi, has been killed in the Pahalgam attack while he was on leave. He is a native of Haryana and got married on 16 April, said Defence Officials.

Shivamogga Lok Sabha MP BY Raghavendra visited the residence of a Shivamogga resident who was killed in the Pahalgam terrorist attack.

"Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Over the past few days, we have been overcome with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack," posts US Vice President JD Vance.

 Pahalgam terror attack: Residents carried out candle light march in Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir.

Alert in Delhi after the terrorist attack in J&K's Pahalgam. Delhi Police has also been instructed to keep a close watch on tourist places and other important places, said Delhi Police Sources.

Security has been beefed up across Jammu as various outfits have called for protests on Wednesday to condemn a deadly terror attack on tourists in south Kashmir's Pahalgam tourist resort, officials said. Terrorists opened fire at a famed meadow near Pahalgam town on Tuesday afternoon, killing at least 26 people, mostly tourists, in the deadliest attack in the valley since the Pulwama strike in 2019. The 26 deceased included two foreigners and two locals, a high-ranking official said, without getting into details. 

(Input PTI)

J-K CM Omar Abdullah briefs Union Home Minister Amit Shah over Pahalgam terrorist attack. LG Manoj Sinha and other high-level officials also present.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday condemned the terror attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. In a post on X, Kumar said, "The death of tourists in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu-Kashmir ,is very tragic. The incident is highly condemnable. I offer my deep condolences to the bereaved families... wishing for the speedy recovery of the injured. The entire country stands united against terrorism."

Prasant Satpathy, a tourist from Odisha, was reportedly killed in a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. He was holidaying with his wife and eight-year-old son when the tragic incident took place.

According to information, Prashant, a resident of Ishani village in Remuna area of ​​​​Balasur district, was shot and died in the sudden attack. Anantnag police confirmed his death after the Jammu and Kashmir family confirmed the details through a helpline set up by the police.

The Satpathy family had gone to the scenic area of ​​​​Pahalgam for a peaceful holiday, which turned into a devastating tragedy.

(Input: Shubham Kumar)

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said, "The terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir is cowardly, unforgivable and highly condemnable. My condolences to those who lost their loved ones in this tragic incident! I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant salvation to the departed souls and speedy recovery to the injured."

On the Pahalgam terror attack, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis said, "We condemn this attack... This attack was attempted at stopping J-K's journey towards development... Our Prime Minister has taken cognisance. Home Minister Amit Shah is reaching there, and strict action will be taken. I am also in touch with the administration there. Two people from Maharashtra have lost their lives in  the terrorist attack..."

Bajrang Dal workers in Jammu hold a protest following the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is in constant touch with senior officials of the Jammu and Kashmir administration.Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri was also contacted, and detailed information was obtained. Pahalgam falls under his jurisdiction.

As per the latest information, two tourists from Maharashtra have lost their lives in the attack — Dilip Disale and Atul Mone. Two others from Maharashtra have been injured in the terrorist attack. One of the injured is from Panvel, while the origin of the second injured individual within Maharashtra is currently being verified. The names of the injured, as provided by the Kashmir administration, are: Manik Patel (Panvel) and S. Bhalchandra Rao. Fortunately, both are in stable condition.

(Input: Sachin Chaudhary)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaches J-K's Srinagar to hold a high-level meeting in the wake of the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam.

Jammu and Kashmir: People hold a candle march in Handwara to condemn Pahalgam terrorist attack. 

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee tweets, "I am deeply anguished by the brutal terrorist attack in the Pahalgam region of Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir.  My heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.  This act of violence is utterly reprehensible and must not go unpunished."

NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule said, "Requesting Omar Abdullah for providing immediate medical aid and support to the following people hailing from Pune who have suffered injuries in the Pahalgham firing incident today: Asawari Jagdale, Pragati Jagdale, Santosh Jagdale (gunshot wound), Kaustubh Ganbote (gunshot wound), & Sangeeta Gabote from Pune. The family has requested for clarity on their condition please. Thank you for your efficient & quick administration!"

"Emergency Control Room – Srinagar: 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651 Adil Fareed, ADC Srinagar – 7006058623. Helpline for the assistance on Pahalgam terror incident," said Information & PR Department, UT of J&K.

Pakistani terror outfits had reportedly conducted a reconnaissance of several tourist spots in Kashmir, particularly hotels, during the first week of April. Pahalgam was among the locations surveyed. According to central agency sources, the recce took place between April 1 and 7, raising suspicions that Lashkar-e-Taiba may be behind the attack. Security agencies believe that more than three terrorists were involved in executing this attack.

(Input: Abhay Parashar)

Army Commander Lt Gen MV Suchendra is going to Srinagar now and he will review the security situation.

Union Minister JP Nadda in an X post said, "Deeply anguished by the news of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The brutal targeting of innocent civilians in this cowardly attack is highly reprehensible. Modi Government follows a Zero-Tolerance Policy against terrorism. Those involved in this heinous act will not be spared. 

The Union Home Minister is visiting the affected area, and the Hon. Prime Minister is personally monitoring the situation. We are committed to supporting all the affected families and will provide all necessary assistance."

Actor Akshay Kumar said, "Horrified to know of the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. Sheer evil to kill innocent people like this. Prayers for their families."

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "The news of the cowardly attack on innocent civilians by terrorists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir is heart-wrenching and angered. The entire nation expresses its sympathies with the families of the civilians killed in this reprehensible act committed by terrorists. Our brave soldiers will definitely give a befitting reply to the cowardice of the terrorists. As long as the brave sons of Mother India are there, the designs of those who want to disturb the peace in Jammu and Kashmir will never succeed."

Anantnag Police announces a 24/7 Emergency Help Desk for Tourists.

President Droupadi Murmu said, "The terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam of Jammu and Kashmir is shocking and painful. It is a dastardly and inhuman act which must be condemned unequivocally. Attacking innocent citizens, in this case tourists, is utterly appalling and unpardonable. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their dear ones and my prayers for the quick recovery of the injured."

At approximately 2:30 pm, a group of 2–3 terrorists appeared and initially asked the tourists to show their identity cards. Moments later, they began firing indiscriminately. Among those present was a man named Offer, who was visiting the area with his family. Displaying presence of mind, he helped those nearby find cover and ensured their safety amidst the chaos.

(Input: Manish Prasad)

In an X post, J-K LG Manoj Shina said, "Anti-terror ops launched to neutralise terrorists. Entire nation is angry & blood of our forces is boiling. I want to assure the nation that perpetrators of Pahalgam attack will have to pay a very heavy price for their heinous act. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families."

As per the sources, around 26 tourists are feared dead and several others injured in the terrorist attack at Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. However, official confirmation from security agencies or the local administration is still awaited. Of the 26 killed, 25 were tourists and one person was a local resident

(Input: Manish Prasad)

 The NIA team will be going tomorrow and soon the investigation will be taken over by the NIA.

EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "Condemn the cowardly terror attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims. Pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has departed for Srinagar from Delhi to assess the situation following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Siddaramaiah expressed strong condemnation of the attack, confirming that Kannadigas were among the victims, and assured the state’s full support to those affected.

Manjunath Rao from Shivamogga tragically lost his life in the attack, while his wife Pallavi and son were also present in Pahalgam during the incident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences for the victims, reaffirmed the government's commitment to fighting terrorism, and vowed that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.

A tourist who narrowly escaped the attack described the traumatic scene, expressing deep shock and grief as terrorists opened fire on innocent civilians in the popular resort area.

PDP leader Iltija Mufti said, "I am short of words for what has happened. My head hangs in shame today; such acts have no place in society. Terrorist attack in a tourist hub like Baisaran, where security forces are constantly deployed, is extremely shocking. This is not just an attack on tourists, it is also an attack on our culture... I condemn this attack and offer my deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones today...

On the Pahalgam terrorist attack on tourists, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary said, "We condemn this attack. Those who think that they can harm Jammu and Kashmir's economy with such attacks will not be successful. We are sympathetic towards the injured. We appeal to the tourists from India and the world to come to Kashmir, as J-K is a peace-loving."

Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi tweets, "The news of the death of tourists and injuries to many in the cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir is extremely condemnable and heartbreaking. I express my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and hope for the speedy recovery of the injured. The whole country is united against terrorism. Instead of making hollow claims of the situation being normal in Jammu and Kashmir, the government should now take accountability and take concrete steps so that such barbaric incidents do not happen in the future and innocent Indians do not lose their lives like this."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "Deeply anguished by the news of terrorist attack in Pahalgam (Jammu & Kashmir). This dastardly attack on innocent civilians is an act of cowardice and highly reprehensible. My thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Anguished by the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. My thoughts are with the family members of the deceased. Those involved in this dastardly act of terror will not be spared, and we will come down heavily on the perpetrators with the harshest consequences."

he further said, "Briefed PM Narendra Modi Ji about the incident and held a meeting with the concerned officials via video conferencing. Will shortly leave for Srinagar to hold an urgent security review meeting with all the agencies."

Visuals from GMC Anantnag, where four people who were injured in Pahalgam terrorist attack have been admitted. Terrorists struck a prime tourist location of Pahalgam in South Kashmir on Tuesday, killing multiple people and injuring at least 20.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed terror outfit, has claimed responsibility for the brutal attack on tourists in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, located in South Kashmir's Anantnag district. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, left at least 12 tourists injured, including several critically.  

On the Pahalgam terror attack on tourists, BJP leader Kavinder Gupta said, "This is a very sad incident...These kinds of incidents create an atmosphere of fear among the tourists...The terrorists should be killed..."

In response to the incident, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep outrage, calling the attack "cowardly." He assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir that those responsible for this heinous act would not go unpunished. "I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam," Sinha said. He further confirmed that he had spoken with the Director General of Police (DGP) and other security officials, who had deployed Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police teams to the area for a search operation. Sinha also directed district administration and health officials to provide immediate medical attention to the injured, including evacuating one tourist to the Government Medical College (GMC) , Anantnag. "I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured," he added.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday expressed shock over the terror attack on tourists in the Pahalgam hill resort and described the perpetrators as "animals, inhuman and worthy of contempt". He hinted large number of casualties, saying the attack is "much larger than anything we have seen directed at civilians in recent years". Abdullah said the death toll is still being ascertained.

"I'm shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough," the chief minister said in a post on X.

A woman tourist recalled horror and said the terrorists opened fire on her husband after asking his name and religion. Another eyewitness said unidentified gunmen opened fire on the tourists from close range, resulting in injuries to several people. 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called a high-level meeting to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir following the terror attack in Pahalgam. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, intelligence agencies, and top security forces are expected to attend the meeting to assess the ground situation and plan further action.

PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday called Home Minister Amit Shah on the phone on the Pahalgam terror attack and asked him to take all suitable measures. PM Modi also asked him to visit the site. In the meantime, Amit Shah has called a high-level meeting to review the security situation in the country.

At least one tourist was killed and 12-13 were reported to be injured after terrorists opened fire at a resort in Pahalgam, Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday, police said.