Pahalgam terror attack: 'Save my husband, please': Survivor’s cry echoes after terror attack on tourists
PTC Web Desk: Tears streamed down her face as she clutched a stranger's arm, begging for help. “Save my husband, please,” she pleaded, her voice trembling and choked with grief. Moments earlier, she had witnessed a gunman walk up to her husband during what was supposed to be a peaceful day in the meadows of Pahalgam — and shoot him at close range. Around her, panic erupted as gunshots echoed through the valley, turning a serene tourist outing into a nightmare.
In a shocking and tragic incident, gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists in the Baisaran meadow area of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday. One tourist was killed, and at least 12 others sustained injuries in what the authorities have confirmed as a terror attack.
According to eyewitnesses and survivors, the assailants, dressed in Army-style fatigues, launched the attack suddenly, targeting visitors without warning. The victims were relaxing and enjoying the scenic spot when the gunfire began.
The attack site, Baisaran meadow — often called "Mini Switzerland" — is a lush green stretch located about 5 km from the main Pahalgam hill station. Accessible only by trekking or pony ride, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists.
Videos from the scene revealed the horrifying aftermath: bloodied bodies on the ground, distraught survivors, and locals rushing to help. One woman, tending to an injured man, could be heard crying, "Sir, please, please, please ask for help." Another recounted how a gunman accused her husband of not being a Muslim before shooting him.
Security forces quickly reached the area, securing the zone and launching a search operation. The Resistance Front (TRF), a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy group, claimed responsibility for the attack.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha issued a statement on X, saying he had directed local administration and health officials to ensure immediate medical assistance. One critically injured tourist was airlifted to GMC Anantnag for treatment.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti strongly condemned the attack, calling it a "cowardly act" and expressing deep concern over the safety of visitors in the valley. She emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation and urged authorities to prevent such incidents in the future.
- With inputs from agencies
