Tragic Chapter in Kashmir's History: Pahalgam Attack

The Pahalgam Attack: A Historical Perspective

The Early Invasions: Muhammad bin Qasim's Entry into India

In 711 AD, Muhammad bin Qasim, an Umayyad general, led the first significant Muslim incursion into the Indian subcontinent. His conquest of Sindh marked the beginning of Islamic rule in parts of India, establishing a foothold that would influence the region’s socio-political landscape for centuries.

The British Colonial Era: A Different Kind of Rule

Centuries later, the British East India Company capitalized on internal divisions to establish control over vast territories in India. The British Raj, formalized in 1858, introduced new administrative systems and economic policies that significantly altered India’s societal fabric. While infrastructure developments occurred, the period also saw economic exploitation and cultural changes that left lasting impacts.

Post-Independence Challenges: Kashmir's Complex Dynamics

After gaining independence in 1947, India faced immediate challenges, particularly in the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s accession to India led to disputes with Pakistan, resulting in multiple wars and ongoing tensions. The insurgency that began in the late 1980s has led to significant loss of life and displacement, particularly affecting minority communities.

Recent Attacks in India Leading Up to Pahalgam

October 2021: Targeted attacks on civilians in Kashmir heightened fears among minority communities.
November 2021: A Hindu family was attacked in their home, leading to national outrage.
March 2022: A Kashmiri Pandit was killed, prompting protests and demands for better security.
June 2022: Civilians in Anantnag were targeted, further escalating tensions.
October 2022: A series of targeted killings occurred, with militants focusing on non-local residents.
May 2023: A Hindu individual was attacked in Pulwama, continuing the pattern of targeted violence.

October 2021: Surge in Civilian Killings

In October 2021, Jammu and Kashmir experienced a significant increase in civilian deaths due to terrorist activities. According to data, 12 civilians were killed in terrorism-related incidents during this month, marking the highest toll in two years and the fourth-highest since 2012. This surge in violence predominantly targeted minority communities, including Hindus and Sikhs, leading to widespread fear and unrest.

November 2021: Attack on a Hindu Family

In November 2021, a Hindu family in Jammu and Kashmir was targeted by militants, resulting in fatalities and injuries. This attack was part of a broader pattern of violence aimed at minority communities in the region. The incident prompted widespread condemnation and heightened concerns about the safety of non-Muslim residents in the Valley.

March 2022: Killing of Kashmiri Pandit Rahul Bhat

March 2022 saw a targeted attack on a Kashmiri Pandit individual, highlighting the continued vulnerability of this minority community. The assailants, believed to be affiliated with militant groups, aimed to perpetuate fear among the returning Pandit population. The attack sparked protests and renewed calls for enhanced security measures to protect minority communities in the region.

June 2022: Attack on Civilians in Anantnag

In June 2022, militants carried out an attack on civilians in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The assailants opened fire on a group of people, resulting in multiple casualties. This incident was part of a pattern of increasing attacks on civilians, particularly targeting minority communities and non-local laborers.

October 2022: Targeted Killing of Puran Krishan Bhat

On October 15, 2022, Puran Krishan Bhat, a Kashmiri Pandit, was shot dead by terrorists outside his residence in the Shopian district. The attack was claimed by the Kashmir Freedom Fighter group, which had previously warned of targeting Pandits and non-locals. Bhat’s killing marked the third such incident targeting Kashmiri Pandits in five months, leading to increased fear and calls for enhanced security measures.

May 2023: Attack on a Hindu in Pulwama

In May 2023, a Hindu individual in Pulwama district was attacked by militants, resulting in serious injuries. The assailants targeted the victim based on religious identity, continuing the trend of communal violence in the region. The incident led to widespread condemnation and calls for stronger protective measures for minority communities in Jammu and Kashmir.

The 2025 Pahalgam Attack: A Tragic Event

On April 22, 2025, militants attacked tourists in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, resulting in 28 deaths and over 20 injuries. The Resistance Front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility, citing opposition to demographic changes in the region.

Aftermath and Reactions

The Indian government responded by enhancing security measures and reviewing intelligence protocols. International leaders condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with India.

FAQ on the Pahalgam Attack

What is the Pahalgam Attack?

The Pahalgam Attack refers to a brutal terrorist incident that occurred on April 22, 2025, in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, a scenic town in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Militants opened fire on unarmed civilians, resulting in at least 28 deaths and over 20 injuries, most of whom were tourists.

Who carried out the Pahalgam Attack?

The attack has been attributed to The Resistance Front (TRF), a terrorist outfit believed to be an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a Pakistan-based militant group. The suspected mastermind is believed to be Saifullah Kasuri, a top LeT commander.

What was the motive behind the attack?

Eyewitness reports suggest that the attackers segregated civilians by gender and religion, and targeted Hindu tourists in particular. Those who could not recite Islamic verses were shot, indicating religious discrimination and sectarian motives.

How did the attackers execute the plan?

The militants, reportedly wearing military-style uniforms and armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s, entered Baisaran—a known tourist spot—and began shooting at civilians after separating them. The well-coordinated attack suggested prior reconnaissance and planning.

Were any security measures in place at the time?

Though Baisaran is a tourist hub, the remote location and terrain made it vulnerable. The incident exposed gaps in surveillance and intelligence, prompting officials to consider permanent deployment of paramilitary and army units in such sensitive zones.

Who were the victims?

Most of the victims were Hindu civilians, including tourists and local workers. One notable victim was Lt. Vinay Narwal, a young Indian Navy officer on his honeymoon. His courage and sacrifice have been widely acknowledged across India.

What was the immediate response from the Indian government?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his foreign visit and convened an emergency Cabinet meeting.
Borders with Pakistan were temporarily closed.
The Indus Waters Treaty was suspended.
A visa exemption scheme for Pakistani citizens was canceled.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) was tasked with a full probe.

What has been the international reaction?

Countries including the USA, UK, France, and Japan condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with India. Many called for stronger international action against state-sponsored terrorism and supported India’s demand for Pakistan to take responsibility.

Is this part of a larger pattern of attacks?

Yes. The Pahalgam Attack is the latest in a series of targeted attacks against Hindu civilians and minority groups in Kashmir:

October 2021: Terrorist attacks on civilians.
November 2021: Attack on a Hindu family.
March 2022: Attack on a Kashmiri Pandit.
June 2022: Attack on civilians in Anantnag.
October 2022: Targeted killings.
May 2023: Attack on a Hindu in Pulwama.

These indicate a strategic and ideological pattern rather than isolated incidents.

What is being done to prevent such attacks in the future?

Enhanced intelligence and drone surveillance in hilly tourist regions.
Permanent deployment of security forces in vulnerable areas.
Identity verification and registration for visitors and workers in high-risk zones.
Community engagement and early-warning systems in collaboration with locals.

Can tourists visit Pahalgam safely now?

As of now, tight security has been reinstated in and around Pahalgam. However, travelers are advised to follow government advisories, register their visit, and avoid venturing into isolated areas without proper coordination with local authorities.