At least 27 are feared dead, including two foreigners, and 12 are injured after 2-3 terrorists in army uniforms opened fire on tourists in a meadow near Kashmir's Pahalgam.
According to reports, the attackers targeted visitors in Baisaran, a scenic area roughly six kilometres from the popular resort town of Pahalgam. However, officials have yet to confirm the exact death toll.
Known as 'mini Switzerland' for its vast meadows, dense pine forests, and mountainous backdrop, Baisaran is a favoured spot for tourists and trekkers. The assailants entered the area and began shooting at visitors, many of whom were gathered near food stalls, enjoying horseback rides, or simply taking in the landscape.
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has departed for Srinagar to assess the situation. Shah's visit comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently in Jeddah, spoke with him and directed him to travel to the Union Territory. News agency ANI shared footage of Shah boarding a plane alongside Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the terrorist attack as "far more severe than any recent assault targeting civilians," with the full scale of casualties still being determined.
The region has witnessed similar violence in the past, including a 2000 attack on the Amarnath base camp in Pahalgam that killed over 30 people and injured 60. The following year, in 2001, an assault on Amarnath pilgrims at Sheshnag left 13 dead and 15 wounded, while another attack in Pahalgam in 2002 claimed 11 lives.
