
'Our hearts bleed today': How terrorist attack shook fragile stability in Kashmir
Tourism in the region faces a devastating setback as the Indian government vows tough retaliation against the attackers
On Tuesday morning, life was vibrant in the Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam, surrounded by pine-covered mountains and snow-kissed peaks where the air was crisp, clean, and chilled, Manju Tripathi, 37, a tourist from Gujarat, recalls.
By afternoon, everything had changed, as a volley of bullets rang in the air after a group of terrorists who emerged from nearby forests fired indiscriminately at tourists, killing 26 people, including a local tour guide.
At the time, officials estimate that 1,000-1,500 tourists were present in the high-altitude, lush meadow, which is only accessible on foot or by horseback.
"We had left the Baisaran Valley and were in Pahalgam, having lunch at a restaurant, when we heard about the attack. Everyone was panicked and there was chaos all around," Tripathi told RT at the airport from where she was rushing back to her home state along with a group of her family members who had come for a week-long visit to Kashmir.
Tripathi said that the family cut short their trip in fear and left for their home. "We could never have imagined that this would happen in Kashmir, which everyone assured was peaceful now," she said. "We had seen and heard about the beauty of Kashmir on social media and thought this was the mini-Switzerland."
Shubam Dwivedi, 29, got married on February 12. He was in Pahalgam with his wife to enjoy the time, little suspecting that this would be his last vacation.
"We could identify his body from the video on social media. Shubham's wife told us that terrorists asked his name before shooting him," Saurabh Dwivedi, his cousin, said as the family mourned the loss.
The family was a group of 11 people who has arrived in Kashmir on April 18 and were supposed to depart on April 23.
"While the rest of the family was a little away, Shubam and his wife were at Baisaran at that time. We feel devastated," his father, Sanjay Dwivedi, said, adding that his son and daughter-in-law were having snacks on the meadow when he was targeted.
People leave after offering Friday prayers in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India, on April 25, 2025. The attack that kills 26 tourists takes place at Baisaran, dubbed 'mini Switzerland' for its meadow
Nasir Kachroo/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Deadliest attack in recent history
The attack in Pahalgam marks the deadliest assault on civilians in Kashmir in recent years. While the region has a history of violence for decades, the insurgency erupted in the early 1990s, but direct attacks on tourists have been relatively rare.
In 1995, six foreign tourists were abducted in Pahalgam by the terrorist group Al-Faran. One was killed, another escaped, and the remaining four were never found.
In 2000, 32 people, including 21 Hindu pilgrims, were killed at Nunwan in Pahalgam by terrorists. The latest attack's scale and targeting of civilians highlight a concerning shift in terrorist tactics.
In February 2019, 40 Indian paramilitary troopers were killed in an attack on a highway that India blamed on Pakistan and triggered a war-like situation between the two countries.
In June of last year, terrorists ambushed a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims in the Reasi district in southern Jammu, killing nine people and injuring several others.
"This is something that I have never seen in my life in Kashmir. This incident has shaken the core of us," said Sami Ullah, 30, a resident of Srinagar associated with the travel business. "This incident will devastate the livelihood of millions in Kashmir."
People in Pahalgam stage a protest against the recent tourist killings at Baisaran in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India, on April 25, 2025.
Nasir Kachroo/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Rise in tourism
In August 2019, the ruling government led by the BJP stripped the region of its limited autonomy by abrogation Article-370, a seven-decade old law which gave exclusive citizenship rights to the permanent residents of the region and barred outsiders from securing jobs, land and scholarships.
New Delhi reasoned that the move was aimed at bringing development and peace to the region and wiping out insurgency.
Due to the improvement in the security situation, Kashmir has witnessed a significant surge in tourism in recent years. Government figures show that last year 23 million tourists visited the region. In 2018, 16 million tourists visited the region.
The government's efforts to promote the region as a safe travel destination led to record tourist arrivals, which were expected to spike this year and helped to give a boost to the local economy in the hospitality, transport, and handicraft sectors.
However, the deadly attack has turned the vibrant tourist spot into a ghost town now, which has been emptied, and hotels are now lying vacant as most tourists are either leaving or have already left the region. The Srinagar International Airport has been witnessing a crowd of people who are fleeing the region by cutting short their stay.
"We mourn with the families of the victims who were killed. Our hearts are heavy and eyes are wet," said Abdul Rasheed, a boat rider in the main city of Srinagar, as dozens of boats lay in rows empty near the banks of the lake waiting for visitors.
"Our hearts broke into pieces when we saw everyone leaving in panic. We are ashamed of what has happened, our hearts bleed today. This scar will remain etched forever and has cost the livelihoods of the poor people," he said.
Boatmen hold placards during a protest to condemn a deadly attack on tourists at Dal Lake on April 24, 2025 in Srinagar, India.
Waseem Andrabi/Hindustan Times via Getty Images
The killings sparked a shutdown in the region, where hundreds of locals and politicians took to the streets to condemn the incident.
"We condemn this. These attacks hit the local lives and bring economic disaster," said Shabir Ahmad, 25, a taxi driver in Srinagar. "Is this the paradise on earth? This is hell on earth where such things happen. This has taken away our peace and prosperity."
Timing of the attack
The attack happened days after Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir's speech in which he referred to Kashmir as the "jugular vein" of Pakistan, potentially signaling a hardline stance.
The attack also coincided with the Indian visit of US Vice President J.D. Vance and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia. In the past, similar attacks have also occurred during high-profile visits, such as in 2000, during then-US President Bill Clinton's trip to India, when 35 Sikh men were killed in the southern village of Chittisingpura, suggesting a pattern aimed at drawing international attention.
Ayushi and other family members mourn during the last rites of Neeraj Udhwani, who is killed in the Pahalgam terror attack, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, on April 24, 2025.
Vishal Bhatnagar/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The international community's response to Kashmir has always been influenced by broader geopolitical interests, but there has been widespread global condemnation of the latest attack. Experts say sustained engagement in resolving the underlying issues has been limited and needs to be addressed.
"The recent attack underscores the need for a more proactive international role in facilitating dialogue between India and Pakistan, to address Kashmir's political problem so that such incidents do not repeat," said Idrees Ahmad, a researcher based in Kashmir.
"The region needs peace and stability so that everyone can feel safe who visit," he added.
Manoj K Channnan, a former army official, says this was a calculated strike. "This wasn't just an attack on civilians - it was a calculated strike on India's credibility, timed with the visit of US Vice President JD Vance. Today, Kashmir faces a new breed of militancy. Intelligence estimates indicate the presence of around 60 foreign terrorists in the Valley. Half of them are linked to The Resistance Front (TRF) - a proxy outfit for Lashkar-e-Taiba, operating under a softer, more local-sounding label to dodge global scrutiny."
He says that beyond the tactical fallout, this attack has strategic consequences for the Kashmir Valley.
Demonstrators in Srinagar hold placards and candles during a protest against the killing of tourists at a famous tourist resort Pahalgam.
Saqib Majeed/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
"In recent years, tourism has picked up dramatically... Kashmir felt hopeful again. Now, that confidence is cracked. Tourists will cancel bookings, airlines will scale back flights, and hotels and houseboats will see empty rooms. The economic loss to local Kashmiris will be staggering, and once again, they will face the impossible dilemma of surviving in a conflict economy," he added.
Haseeb Drabu, former finance minister in the region, shares these concerns. "The revival of trade and commerce, which accounts for 40% of the local economy, has been suddenly and brutally cut short, and the livelihood of lakhs of families has been seriously impaired." He added the economic shock will persist and linger on for months, if not years, to come.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


NDTV
23 minutes ago
- NDTV
Raghurajpur Travel Guide: Odisha's Hidden Gem For Culture Lovers
Just a short drive from Puri, Odisha, lies a village that feels like it has been painted straight out of a folk tale. Raghurajpur, referred to as the heritage craft village, is all about artistic experience. The moment one steps into this quaint settlement, the air feels different. It is quieter, more colourful, and filled with the scent of fresh paint and palm leaves. Every house here doubles as an artist's studio, and every wall is a canvas. The village is best known for its Pattachitra art, a traditional scroll painting style that dates back centuries. But that is just the beginning. From palm leaf engravings to Gotipua dance performances, Raghurajpur is a living museum of Odisha's rich cultural heritage. It is the kind of place that makes you slow down, look closer, and appreciate the beauty in the details. A Village Built On Art And Tradition: Raghurajpur is a place where art is not just practiced, it is well lived. The village is home to over 100 families, most of whom are skilled artisans carrying forward generations of craftsmanship. What makes it special? The houses here are adorned with murals of mythological scenes, floral borders, and geometric patterns. Even doors and windows are painted, turning the entire village into an open-air gallery. Pattachitra: Major Attraction Of Raghurajpur The most celebrated art form in Raghurajpur is Pattachitra, renowned for its intricate detailing and bold, graceful lines. What sets it apart is the use of natural colours, carefully derived from minerals, vegetables, and stones, giving each artwork a rich, earthy vibrance. The themes are deeply rooted in Indian mythology, often depicting scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Artists use handmade brushes and follow traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations, preserving the authenticity and timeless charm of this ancient craft. Beyond Pattachitra, Raghurajpur Is A Hub Of Diverse Crafts: Raghurajpur is a treasure trove of traditional art forms. Apart from Pattachitra, you will find: Palm Leaf Etching: Delicate engravings on dried palm leaves, often depicting sacred texts and stories. Tussar Silk Paintings: Traditional motifs painted on rich silk fabric. Wood And Stone Carving: Intricately crafted sculptures and decorative items. Gotipua Dance: A classical dance form performed by young boys dressed as female dancers, considered a precursor to Odissi. What To Expect When You Visit Raghurajpur? Visiting Raghurajpur is like stepping into a slower, more soulful rhythm of life. Here's what makes it memorable: No loud tourist traps or commercial chaos. Artists welcome visitors into their homes and studios. Live demonstrations of painting, etching, and carving. Opportunity to buy authentic art directly from the creators-often at very reasonable prices. Annual crafts mela and cultural festivals that showcase the village's vibrant spirit. Photo Credit: How To Reach Raghurajpur? Best Time To Visit: Raghurajpur is located about 14 kilometres from Puri, easily accessible by road. The best time to visit the place is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and the village is buzzing with festive energy. Combine your visit with a trip to the Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach, or Konark Sun Temple for a complete cultural getaway. Raghurajpur Is A Place That Stays With You: Raghurajpur is a place that celebrates creativity, tradition, and community. For anyone with an artistic soul or a curious heart, this heritage craft village is a must-visit. Here, you can see the art, feel it and live it completely.


News18
an hour ago
- News18
Indian-Origin Women Asked To Deplane After Heated Face-Off With Crew
Last Updated: In a video, the women are seen engaging in a heated debate with an attendant and the reason? She mistakenly claimed the flight was headed to New Orleans instead of New York. In a surprising incident aboard a Spirit Airlines flight in the United States, three Indian-origin women were asked to deplane following a heated argument with a cabin crew member over a destination mix-up. A video of the confrontation, now viral on TikTok, shows the trio engaged in a tense exchange with a flight attendant. The disagreement began when the attendant mistakenly stated that the flight was heading to New Orleans, although it was bound for New York. One of the women, visibly upset, questioned the crew member's knowledge of the flight's route, saying, 'You don't know where the flight is going. First of all, you don't know." Realising the error, the flight attendant promptly apologised, saying, 'I'm sorry about that," and then requested the women to place their bags under their seats. However, the situation quickly escalated as the passengers continued to question her and insisted on discussing the earlier confusion. 'You've told me several times that it's New Orleans. So, first of all, you must understand where we are going," one woman said firmly. Despite the apology, the confrontation did not de-escalate. Eventually, the airline made the decision to have the three women removed from the flight. Later on, the flight attendant seemed to have lost her cool and warned the ladies that they would be deplaned from the aircraft. 'Okay, just for that, I'll make sure you get off. This is easy for me. Watch," she said. Things took an ugly turn after the Police were called up on the aircraft to remove the three women. In a follow-up video, an Officer is heard saying, 'Get up and walk with us. We can talk more out there. But right now, get up and walk." To our surprise, the women refused to leave and were informed that if they did not cooperate, they would face jail time. After a short discussion with the cops, the women took their belongings and deboarded the flight. Notably, the incident caused the flight to be delayed by more than an hour. An official statement from Spirit Airlines regarding the incident is still awaited.


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Chirps & clicks: Gurgaon birders spot feathered friends
Gurgaon's birding community is out and about, with cameras in hand and eyes on the greens. Sarus cranes in the fields, pittas mid-flight and paradise flycatchers that live up to their name – here's a look at summer through the lens of the city's avid birdwatchers. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Summer breeding birds like Indian paradise flycatcher spotted at Bhondsi Nature Park (Pic: Mohit Mehta/ @indian_pitta on X) 'Nesting birds can be spotted during the summer months' About the birds that can be easily spotted during summer months, birder and avian photographer Mohit Mehta says, 'Indian pitta and Indian paradise flycatchers are summer-breeding birds which come to Bhondsi Nature Park for nesting. The male flycatchers have a long tail, making them beautiful to photograph. Chestnut-bellied sandgrouse camouflage themselves in agricultural fields and Jhanjhrola grassland is the best place to spot them. The tallest flying cranes – sarus crane – breed in Gurgaon and can be spotted in Chandu Budhera. It is also a good time to spot resident birds like the red avadavat.' Yellow-crowned woodpecker, a resident bird, can be spotted at Bhondsi Nature Park, Sultanpur National Park and Sakatpur; Sarus cranes are seen at Chandu Budhera (Pics: @indian_pitta on X) Nineteen-year-old birder Gurnoor Dhillon, who hosts bird walks in Gurgaon, says, 'The black-headed cuckooshrike's singing in the Aravalli region is a treat for bird enthusiasts. Three bee-eater species also arrive in NCR. The blue-tailed bee-eater are commonly spotted in Bhondsi and Mangar (Faridabad). The blue-cheeked bee-eater is seen along the water bodies like Najafgarh Jheel, Chandu, Surajpur. Jungle prinias start calling in summer and can be seen in Gurgaon's green belts. ' Indian golden oriole, Crested bunting, cuckoo shrike can be spotted these days (Pics: Gurnoor Dhillon) 'Birders should wear a cap and opt for light clothes to stay safe from the heat' Summer is a great time for birdwatching, but birders should take precautions to stay safe from the heat, says Pankaj Gupta, who is leading the Delhi Bird Atlas initiative. He says, 'Many resident birds are breeding now, and they look their best with bright and colourful feathers. Some summer visitors like the Indian paradise flycatcher, golden oriole and Indian pitta also arrive to breed. They are very beautiful and a photographers' muse. But, in order to remain safe from the heat, birders should wear a cap, opt for light clothes and stay hydrated.' Birder Ramveer recommends early morning birding, given the heat (Pics: @ramveer4019) Birding spots in Gurgaon Bhondsi Nature Park Chandu Budhera Aravalli Biodiversity Park Basai Wetland Damdama Lake Sultanpur National Park Sakatpur Birds spotted by Aaran Sharma