J&K CM Omar Abdullah Condemns Terror Attack On Tourists In Pahalgam

A terrorist attack in the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has left one tourist dead and several others injured, according to early reports.

The incident occurred when 2-3 terrorists, reportedly dressed in army uniforms, opened fire on tourists who were riding horses in the area. Security forces have since cordoned off the location and launched a search operation to apprehend the assailants.

The death toll is still being ascertained so I don’t want to get in to those details. They will be officially conveyed as the situation becomes clearer. Needless to say this attack is much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years.

— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) April 22, 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed shock over the attack in a social media statement: "I'm shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman, and worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough."

Abdullah also stated that he has spoken with his colleague Sakina Itoo, who has gone to the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured, and that he would be returning to Srinagar immediately to address the situation.

In a follow-up post, the Chief Minister noted that the full extent of casualties is still being determined, adding that "this attack is much larger than anything we've seen directed at civilians in recent years."

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has also condemned what she described as a "cowardly attack" by terrorists.

The incident comes at a time when tourism in the Kashmir Valley has been flourishing, raising concerns about the potential impact on the region's vital tourism industry.