Pahalgam Terror Attack: Amit Shah pays tribute to victims, vows justice for bereaved families

Srinagar, April 23: A day after a horrifying terrorist attack in Pahalgam claimed the lives of 28 civilians, mostly tourists, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Srinagar on Wednesday to pay homage to the victims and assure their families of swift justice.

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At a solemn wreath-laying ceremony held at the Police Control Room (PCR) in Srinagar, Shah honoured the deceased by laying floral tributes on their coffins. The victims hailed from various parts of India, underlining the widespread impact of the brutal assault.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah were also present at the tribute, offering condolences and joining in the collective mourning. The attack has been described as one of the deadliest on civilians in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama tragedy.

Soon after arriving in Srinagar, Shah was briefed by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat on the ongoing investigation and current ground situation. 

#WATCH | Srinagar | Union Home Minister Amit Shah and J&K LG Manoj Sinha meet the families of Pahalgam terror attack victims pic.twitter.com/FLs2BGTy5J

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He later chaired a high-level security review meeting, attended by senior civil and military officers, to evaluate counter-terrorism measures and regional security arrangements.

According to police sources, the terror strike took place on Tuesday afternoon at approximately 2.30 pm in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, a scenic meadow often dubbed ‘mini Switzerland’ and accessible only on foot or horseback. 

Around 40 tourists were enjoying pony rides in the valley when gunmen suddenly emerged from the dense pine forests and opened fire.

Also Read: World Leaders Unite in Condemning Pahalgam Terror Attack, Express Solidarity with India

Eyewitnesses reported that two to three attackers dressed in military fatigues indiscriminately fired at the group, causing panic and chaos. Some survivors alleged that the assailants questioned the victims about their religion before targeting them.

One chilling account claimed that a couple was approached by a terrorist who asked about their faith. When the man failed to recite the ‘Kalima,' a formal Islamic declaration of belief, he was shot dead on the spot. 

Several similar incidents were reported, indicating that the attackers may have singled out individuals based on their religion.

Also Read: Terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam: PM Modi directs Amit Shah to take immediate action

The targeted and brutal nature of the assault has sent shockwaves across the nation, with political leaders and civil society demanding stringent action. Security forces have since launched a massive search operation in the area to track down the perpetrators.

Union Home Minister Shah, while addressing the media briefly after the ceremony, stated, “This cowardly act will not go unpunished. Every drop of innocent blood spilled will be avenged. The country stands united against terrorism.”

Investigations are ongoing, and the Centre has pledged full support to the Jammu and Kashmir administration in its efforts to restore peace and bring the attackers to justice.