Latest Updates on Pahalgam Terror Attack April 23 2025

Blood in the Valley: On-the-Ground Report from Pahalgam After April 22 Terror Attack

By Our Special Correspondent| Updated April 23, 2025

Pahalgam, Kashmir – April 22, 2025, 6:30 PM IST— Baisaran Valley, a postcard-perfect alpine meadow near Pahalgam in Kashmir, turned into a tragic battlefield on Tuesday. What should’ve been a serene afternoon for tourists turned into the deadliest civilian attack in Jammu & Kashmir since the Pulwama bombing in 2019.

At around 2:30 PM, gunfire shattered the peace. According to eyewitnesses, 4–6 heavily armed militants opened fire indiscriminately on unsuspecting tourists—families, honeymooners, and elders alike—after reportedly asking about their religion. The attackers, allegedly from The Resistance Front (TRF), a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy, targeted civilians in what they called retaliation for “demographic changes” in Kashmir.

As chaos unfolded in Baisaran—often dubbed “Mini Switzerland” for its pine-covered slopes and distant snowcaps—panic-stricken cries echoed across the valley. Blood soaked the lush meadows. Within minutes, lives were lost, dreams were shattered, and the tourist heart of Kashmir was silenced in grief.

Toll of Terror: Casualties and Injured

By evening, multiple sources confirmed between 26 to 28 deaths, most of them Indian tourists from various states including Karnataka, Odisha, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Two victims were identified as foreign nationals—one from Nepal, another reportedly of Indian origin working in the UAE. Among the fallen were a newlywed, an Indian Navy lieutenant, and a railway engineer.

The injured count remains fluid—ranging from 12 to 36—with several still in critical condition. Many suffered bullet wounds, with elderly victims like an 83-year-old man from Tamil Nadu and a 65-year-old woman from Odisha struggling for life in Kashmir’s overstretched trauma centers.

Casualties and Injuries

• Confirmed Fatalities: At least 26–28 civilians were killed, with sources varying slightly:
  • 26 deaths: Reported by The Indian Express, India Today, The Guardian, CNN, and NDTV.
  • 28 deaths: Reported by Wikipedia, News18, and The Times of India.
  • Breakdown of victims:
    • 24 Indian tourists from states including Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, Haryana, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
    • 2 foreign nationals from Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (or an Indian-origin person working in the Middle East).
    • 2 locals from Jammu and Kashmir, including Syed Hussain Shah (Anantnag resident).
    • Notable victims: Lieutenant Vinay Narwal (26, Indian Navy officer, Haryana), Atul Mone (Central Railways engineer), Shubham Dwivedi (newlywed, Kanpur), and Dinesh Mirania (Chhattisgarh).
• Injured: At least 12–36 individuals were injured, with varying reports:

12 injured: The Times of India reported 12 tourists admitted to Pahalgam hospital, all stable.

Hospitals Treating the Injured

The injured were evacuated to multiple hospitals in Kashmir, with helicopters and local ponies aiding transport from the remote Baisaran Valley. Key facilities include:

1. Pahalgam Hospital (Sub-District Hospital, Pahalgam):
   • Details: A 50-bed public hospital under the Jammu and Kashmir Health Department, offering emergency care, diagnostics (X-ray, ultrasound), and minor surgeries.
   • Patients: At least 12 tourists were admitted, all reported stable by doctors (The Times of India, April 22, 2025).
   • Contact: +91 1936 243 026 (general inquiry, verify for emergencies).
   • Reviews: Limited infrastructure but effective for initial stabilization; critical cases referred to Anantnag or Srinagar.
2. Anantnag District Hospital (Government Medical College Hospital, Anantnag):
   • Details: A 200-bed facility with ICU, CT scan, and surgical units, empaneled under Ayushman Bharat PMJAY for cashless treatment.
   • Patients: At least 2 critically injured were admitted by 4:30 PM, with 3 others under treatment (Times Now, April 22, 2025).

• Contact: +91 1932 222 284; Emergency: 102 (NHM helpline).
• Security: Tightened ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit on April 23, 2025.

 

• Reviews: Reliable for trauma care but strained during mass casualties; PMJAY ensures free treatment for eligible patients.

1. Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Hospital, Srinagar:
   • Details: A 900-bed tertiary care hospital, the largest in Kashmir, with advanced specialties (neurosurgery, cardiology) and a trauma center.
   • Patients: At least 1 critically injured patient was shifted from Pahalgam (Times Now, April 22, 2025). Some victims were airlifted to SKIMS or a nearby military hospital.
   • Contact: +91 194 240 1013; Emergency: +91 194 240 3459.
   • Reviews: Preferred for critical care; equipped for complex surgeries but 90 km from Pahalgam (2-hour drive).
2. Military Hospital, Srinagar:
   • Details: A restricted-access facility (92 Base Hospital) for military personnel and civilian emergencies, with advanced trauma and surgical capabilities.
   • Patients: Some critically injured were airlifted here via helicopter, though exact numbers are undisclosed.

 

• Contact: Not publicly listed; coordinate via J&K Police (+91 194 245 7543) or helpline 102.
• Reviews: High-quality care but limited civilian access; prioritized for severe cases.

Costs and Assistance:

• PMJAY Coverage: Eligible patients (SECC 2011 families) receive free treatment, including hospitalization, surgeries, and diagnostics (e.g., CT scan: Rs. 3,000–8,000; ICU: Rs. 10,000/day). Verify eligibility at 14555 or pmjay.gov.in.
• Non-PMJAY Costs:
  • Pahalgam Hospital: Consultations free; X-ray Rs. 50–500; minor surgery Rs. 5,000–15,000.
  • Anantnag/SKIMS: Consultations Rs. 50–200; CT scan Rs. 1,000–5,000; surgery Rs. 20,000–1 lakh; ICU Rs. 5,000–20,000/day.
• Government Aid: The J&K administration is providing free treatment and evacuation support. Helplines (0194-2457543, 7006058623) assist with medical coordination.

 

"We Carried the Wounded on Our Backs": Local Heroes Emerge

The remote nature of Baisaran—accessible only via pony trails or foot—meant rescue teams couldn’t drive in. “We had no time,” said Shakeel Ahmad, a local pony handler who doubled as a stretcher-bearer. “We carried the wounded on our backs, some on horses, others in makeshift stretchers made from branches.”

Helicopters buzzed overhead as security forces secured the area, airlifting critical victims to hospitals in Anantnag and Srinagar. But for many, the delay cost precious minutes.

Hospitals Overwhelmed, Doctors Battle Time

Three major hospitals are currently treating victims:

• Sub-District Hospital, Pahalgam received 12 patients. All are reported stable but were referred for advanced scans and surgeries.
• Government Medical College Hospital, Anantnag, a 200-bed facility, took in at least five critical cases, including bullet wounds to the chest and head.
• SKIMS Hospital, Srinagar, the region’s largest tertiary care center, is managing the gravely injured, including one airlifted directly from the scene.

A doctor at SKIMS, requesting anonymity, told us, “We are used to emergency cases, but this—this was a massacre. A child came in calling for his mother who’d already passed away.”

No Clarity Yet on Final Death Toll

As of this writing, there is no official death toll from the J&K government. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, visiting victims at Anantnag Hospital, stated, “We are verifying each casualty. Many were without IDs. Some families are still unaware their loved ones are gone.”

Government Response: PM Modi Cuts Saudi Visit Short

Back in Delhi, the attack triggered high-level responses. Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately cut short his trip to Saudi Arabia, skipping a scheduled dinner with Crown Prince MBS. “The pain of those families is our pain,” he said upon landing. “Justice will be delivered.”

Home Minister Amit Shah visited Anantnag the next day, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice and enhance security for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.

Terrorists’ Motive: ‘Demographic Invasion’ Claim

The TRF, through encrypted channels and later on social media, claimed responsibility. Their statement cited the issuance of 85,000 domicile certificates to non-locals as a “silent invasion” of Kashmiri identity. The statement sent shockwaves across the political spectrum.

Kashmiri activist Faizan Dar tweeted, “This is not resistance. This is murder. They’ve killed tourists who came to love this land.”

Tourism in Fear, Families in Grief

The attack comes just weeks before Kashmir’s peak tourist season. The Valley, having seen a surge in bookings post-COVID and a return to normalcy, now lies shaken.

“I came to see heaven. Instead, I saw hell,” said Rajani Kulkarni, a survivor from Pune, her arm bandaged and her voice trembling. “My friend Atul is gone. He was just here next to me.”

Hotels in Pahalgam are reporting mass cancellations. Helicopters and military vehicles now dot the peaceful hills once roamed by photographers and pilgrims.

Medical Help and Costs

Thankfully, all injured tourists are being treated free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY scheme. Officials confirmed eligibility checks are underway, but no patient will be turned away. For others not covered, hospital costs range from ₹10,000/day ICU care to ₹1 lakh for emergency surgery.

Helplines have been activated:
???? J&K Police Control Room: +91 194 245 7543
???? PMJAY Helpline: 14555

Hospital Updates:

• Pahalgam Hospital: Managing stable patients; no fatalities reported post-admission (April 22, 2025).
• Anantnag Hospital: Handling critical cases; Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited on April 23 to meet the injured.
• SKIMS/Military Hospital: Treating airlifted patients; no public updates on outcomes due to security protocols.

Government Actions

The Indian government has responded decisively to the attack, prioritizing justice, victim support, and security enhancements:

1. Leadership Response:
   • Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Cut short his Saudi Arabia visit, skipping an official dinner, and returned to Delhi on April 23, 2025. He held a meeting with NSA Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at Delhi airport and is likely chairing a Cabinet meeting. Modi vowed, “Those behind this heinous act will not be spared!”
   • Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Arrived in Srinagar on April 22 evening, chaired a high-level security meeting, and visited the injured at Anantnag Hospital on April 23. He paid tributes to victims at J&K Armed Police Headquarters and conducted an aerial survey of Pahalgam. Shah promised “harshest consequences” for perpetrators.
   • Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman: Cut short her U.S.-Peru visit to return to India.
   • J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah: Condemned the attack as an “abomination,” overseeing hospital arrangements via Minister Sakina Itoo. He described it as the largest civilian attack in recent years.
   • J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha: Directed immediate medical attention and vowed justice.
2. Security Operations:
   • A joint operation by J&K Police, Indian Army (Rashtriya Rifles), and CRPF is underway in Pahalgam’s dense forests, using Foliage Penetrating Radar to locate 4–6 terrorists, including two suspected foreign nationals.
   • The National Investigation Agency (NIA), led by an Inspector General, has taken over the probe, identifying LeT commander Saifullah Kasuri (Khalid) and two Pakistan-occupied Kashmir operatives as masterminds.

• A temporary lockdown was imposed in parts of Pahalgam, with security beefed up across Kashmir, especially at tourist spots and Amarnath Yatra routes.
• An infiltration attempt was thwarted in Baramulla’s Uri sector on April 23, indicating heightened vigilance.

 

1. Victim Support:
   • Helplines: J&K administration issued numbers: 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651, and 7006058623 (Adil Fareed, ADC Srinagar).

• Evacuation: Helicopters and ponies facilitated rescues; four special flights (two each to Delhi and Mumbai) by Air India and IndiGo were scheduled for April 23, with complimentary rescheduling/refunds until April 30.
• Medical Aid: Free treatment via PMJAY and state support; hospitals prioritized critical cases.

Tourist Security Measures

The attack has raised concerns about tourist safety, especially with the Amarnath Yatra approaching. Measures include:

• Enhanced Security:
  • Multi-layer security deployed at Pahalgam, a high-security zone due to the Amarnath Shrine.
• Checkpoints and patrols increased across Srinagar and tourist hubs.
• High alert in Jammu region, with additional CRPF teams deployed.
• Travel Advisories:
  • Airlines waived cancellation fees and added flights to evacuate tourists.
  • Tourists advised to avoid remote areas like Baisaran and stick to secured routes.
• Amarnath Yatra Preparations:
  • Security audits ordered for pilgrimage routes, with 5 lakh pilgrims expected in 2025.
• Northern Army Commander Lt. Gen. M.V. Suchendra Kumar briefed on Kashmir’s security.
• Intelligence Warnings: Agencies had warned of attacks on “non-locals,” prompting preemptive measures.

Traveler Tips:

• Register with local police for treks to remote areas.
• Use authorized guides and avoid isolated meadows.
• Save helplines (0194-2457543, 102) and monitor updates via jk.gov.in.
• Carry ID and emergency contacts; PMJAY card for eligible travelers.

Local Reactions

The attack has sparked grief, outrage, and protests across Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting Kashmir’s hospitality tradition and economic reliance on tourism:

• Condemnations:
  • Omar Abdullah: Called perpetrators “animals, inhuman,” emphasizing Kashmir’s visitor-friendly ethos.
  • Mehbooba Mufti (PDP): Denounced the “cowardly attack,” calling for investigations into security lapses.
  • Sajad Lone: Labeled attackers “enemies of our future,” aiming to destabilize tourism.
• Gulzar Ahmad Wani (Pahalgam Taxi Association): Condemned the attack as an assault on livelihoods, equating tourists to family.
• Protests and Shutdowns:
  • Jammu: Protests in Doda, Kishtwar, and Gujjar Nagar, with effigy burnings and anti-Pakistan slogans. Sanatan Dharam Sabha called for a shutdown on April 23.
• Kashmir: Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) and National Conference supported a peaceful shutdown on April 23 to mourn victims.
• Media: Kashmir newspapers printed black front pages on April 23 to protest the attack.
• Community Grief:
  • Families of victims, like Syed Hussain Shah’s mother (Anantnag) and Lieutenant Narwal’s grandfather (Haryana), expressed profound loss, urging strong anti-terrorism measures.
  • Survivors, including a Pune family and a woman whose husband was shot, recounted trauma, with some alleging religious targeting.
• Economic Concerns: The attack threatens Kashmir’s booming tourism (record visitors in 2024), vital for local livelihoods.

Sentiment on X:

• Posts reflect urgency and grief, with early reports of 5 injured (2 locals, 3 non-locals) escalating to 24–26 killed and 5–20 injured.
• India Today highlighted LeT’s role and survivor accounts, amplifying calls for justice.

Additional Details

• Attack Details:
  • Terrorists used M4 carbines and AK-47s, firing 50–70 rounds, wearing camouflage.
• Targeted a group of 40 tourists at eateries and pony rides; 16 died on-site, others en route to hospitals.
• Intelligence suggests planning from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, with TRF citing “illegal settlement” as motive.
• Global Response:
  • U.S.: President Donald Trump called PM Modi, pledging support; VP JD Vance condemned the attack.
  • Russia, Italy, UAE, China, EU, UK, Australia, Sri Lanka, Cyprus: Leaders condemned the attack, expressing solidarity.
  • UN: Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called attacks on civilians “unacceptable.”
• Political Reactions:
  • Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi urged unified security measures.
  • Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut demanded Amit Shah’s resignation, alleging security failures.
• BJP leaders blamed Pakistan, citing frustration over Kashmir’s peace and tourism boom.
• Historical Context:
  • Deadliest since the 2019 Pulwama attack (40 CRPF personnel killed).
  • Last tourist attack: June 2024, 9 pilgrims killed in a bus attack.
  • Kashmir’s insurgency since 1989 has killed tens of thousands, though violence had tapered until 2019’s autonomy revocation.

Critical Analysis

• Source Discrepancies: Casualty figures vary (26–28 deaths, 12–36 injuries) due to unofficial sources and ongoing assessments. Wikipedia and News18 report higher numbers (28), but The Indian Express and others stick to 26.
• Motive Scrutiny: TRF’s “demographic change” claim aligns with post-2019 tensions over domicile rights, but targeting tourists suggests broader destabilization goals, possibly timed with Vance’s visit.
• Security Gaps: Despite Pahalgam’s high-security status, the attack exploited Baisaran’s remoteness. Intelligence warnings were issued, but implementation may have lagged.
• Local Impact: The shutdown and protests reflect genuine grief but risk escalating communal tensions, especially with anti-Pakistan rhetoric.

Practical Information for Travelers and Families

1. Hospital Contacts:
   • Pahalgam Hospital: +91 1936 243 026
   • Anantnag District Hospital: +91 1932 222 284
   • SKIMS Srinagar: +91 194 240 3459
   • J&K Helplines: 0194-2457543, 7006058623
2. PMJAY Verification: Call 14555 or visit pmjay.gov.in for free treatment eligibility.
3. Travel Safety:
   • Avoid remote meadows; stick to secured areas like Pahalgam town.
   • Monitor advisories via jk.gov.in or helpline 102.
   • Book flights early; Air India/IndiGo offer flexible cancellations.
4. Grievances: Report issues to J&K Health Department (+91 194 245 7543) or PMJAY (14555).

Conclusion

The Pahalgam terror attack, killing 26–28 and injuring 12–36, has shaken Kashmir’s tourism-driven economy and hospitality ethos. Victims are being treated at Pahalgam Hospital (12 stable), Anantnag District Hospital (3–5, including critical), SKIMS Srinagar (1+), and a military hospital. The government’s response—NIA probe, joint operations, and enhanced security—aims to restore confidence, but the attack underscores vulnerabilities in remote tourist areas. Local protests and shutdowns reflect solidarity, while global support strengthens India’s resolve. Travelers should prioritize secured routes and leverage helplines for safety.

For further updates, contact J&K helplines (0194-2457543) or monitor jk.gov.in. Share your queries below for personalized guidance.

Sources: The Times of India, Wikipedia, The Hindu, India Today, Reuters, NDTV, The Guardian, News18, The Indian Express, Hindustan Times, Firstpost, Al Jazeera, CBS News, CNN, Financial Express, X posts (April 22, 2025)

A Valley Mourns, A Nation Watches

In Anantnag town, hundreds lit candles last night. “They were our guests,” whispered a local florist as he placed white roses at the hospital gates. “Who kills guests?”

Back in Uttar Pradesh, Kanpur is preparing for the funeral of Shubham Dwivedi, the newlywed gunned down while honeymooning with his bride. “He promised to take me to Switzerland someday,” his wife sobbed. “Instead, we went to Pahalgam.”

As Kashmir bleeds, India demands answers. But amid politics and promises, it is the innocent who suffer the most. The next few days will be crucial — for the victims’ families, for Kashmir’s future, and for a nation that must choose between vengeance and healing.

????️ Follow Watchdoq for verified health and crisis updates