On April 22, 2025, India was shaken by a brutal terrorist attack in the picturesque Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Militants belonging to The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, opened fire on tourists, killing at least 28 and injuring over 20 others. The attack has not only caused national outrage but also triggered a political storm across the country, reigniting debates on Kashmir’s security and the government’s approach to terrorism.
Government’s Firm Stand
The central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, swiftly condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly and heinous act of terror.” In a strongly worded statement, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to eradicating terrorism, promising that the perpetrators would be hunted down and brought to justice.
In a significant move, India downgraded diplomatic relations with Pakistan — recalling defense personnel, reducing embassy staff, and announcing the suspension of cooperation under the Indus Waters Treaty. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that India’s counter-terrorism policy would become more aggressive, hinting at potential cross-border operations if intelligence supports such actions.
Opposition’s Criticism and Call for Accountability
Opposition parties united in condemning the attack, but they didn’t hold back their criticism of the ruling BJP-led government. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi described the attack as a “crime against humanity” and questioned the government’s repeated claims that peace had returned to Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
Leaders from other parties like the Trinamool Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party echoed similar sentiments, accusing the government of prioritizing optics over on-ground security. Many called for a transparent inquiry into the intelligence failures and demanded greater accountability from national security agencies.
Local Impact and Community Response
The tragedy has cast a shadow over the tourism-driven economy of Pahalgam. With the summer season just beginning, the attack has led to a flurry of cancellations from tourists, severely impacting local businesses. Hoteliers, taxi drivers, guides, and shopkeepers now face an uncertain future.
Despite the fear, the local community has shown remarkable resilience. Many residents rushed to help the injured during the attack and have since held candlelight vigils to honor the victims and protest terrorism. Their solidarity serves as a reminder that the people of Kashmir are the worst sufferers in this prolonged conflict.
International Reactions and Diplomatic Ripples
World leaders responded quickly to express solidarity with India. U.S. President Donald Trump offered condolences and pledged support in fighting terrorism. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack and reiterated Israel’s commitment to assisting India in its counter-terrorism efforts. The United Nations Secretary-General also issued a strong statement, calling the attack a gross violation of international humanitarian norms.
India is expected to raise the issue on global platforms like the UN and G20, urging for more stringent international action against countries that harbor terrorists.
A Moment for Reflection and Action
The Pahalgam attack is not just a security failure but a wake-up call. While tough measures are necessary, so too is a broader strategy that blends security enforcement with political engagement and community inclusion. Kashmir needs peace, development, and above all, trust — not just from the government, but from the entire nation.
The political blame game must give way to a united national front that seeks long-term solutions, not just temporary retaliation. Only then can India hope to truly honor the lives lost and build a future free from such tragedies.
