Security forces have rushed to the area.
One tourist was killed and six others were injured in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir today. Security forces and medical teams have rushed to the area. In a telephonic conversation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked Union Minister Amit Shah to visit the attack site and take all suitable measures, sources said.
Gunshots were heard in the upper meadows of Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley, an area that is approachable only on foot or on horseback. The terrorists were apparently in camouflage and it is believed to be a targeted attack.
Pahalgam, known for its forests, crystal-clear lakes and sprawling meadows, is a popular tourist spot and draws thousands of visitors every summer.
Terming the attack an "abomination", Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he was "shocked beyond belief". "The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased," he posted on X.
"Needless to say this attack is much larger than anything we've seen directed at civilians in recent years," he added.
The attack comes during the peak tourist season in the Valley and also when registration for this year's Amarnath Yatra is going on across the country. The 38-day pilgrimage is set to begin from July 3, from two routes - the 48-km Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the other 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district, which is shorter but steeper.
During his recent visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Mr Shah chaired a high-level security review meeting, where he gave orders for the complete eradication of terrorism with special focus on the Jammu division. He also gave directions to ensure zero tolerance to infiltration.
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti condemned the attack on tourists and said, "Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced".
"Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists warmly, making this rare incident deeply concerning. A thorough investigation is needed to bring the perpetrators to justice and examine potential security lapses. Ensuring visitor safety is paramount, and steps must be taken to prevent future attacks," she added.
"These cowardly terrorists have targeted unarmed innocent tourists who had come to visit Kashmir," BJP's Ravinder Raina said.
