Srinagar, Apr 23: For the first time in 35 years, Kashmir observed a shutdown to protest the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam.
Massive protests and marches were held in Kashmir demanding justice for victims and punishment for perpetrators of terror crimes.
Jammu and Kashmir came to halt on Wednesday as the region mourned the devastating militant attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed the lives of 26 civilians—mostly tourists—and left scores injured.
Schools and business establishments remained shut. Transport was off the roads. Markets, schools, and streets echoed a collective condemnation of what many called one of the most barbaric assaults in recent memory.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s emotionally charged remarks captured the heartbreak felt across the Valley. “Our guests had come to enjoy their holidays,” Omar said during his visit to the funeral of Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a local horseman, who died confronting the militants. “Tragically, they were sent back in coffins.”
Omar paused to let the words settle before continuing, his voice heavy with emotion. “One of our own—a poor young man working hard to earn an honest living—left home with dreams and returned in a shroud.”
Omar hailed Adil as a hero, revealing that he had tried to stop the attackers and even attempted to disarm one before being shot. “Locals say he confronted them fearlessly. His sacrifice will never be forgotten. We must take care of his family,” Omar added.
The attack, which officials suspect was carried out by members of The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), targeted vacationers enjoying the tranquil alpine meadows. As per the security officials, four heavily armed militants disguised in army uniforms opened indiscriminate fire on the tourists around 2:30 pm in Baisaran, a forested off-road site six kilometres from Pahalgam.
Security agencies have identified the suspected attackers as Aadil Guree, Asif Sheikh alias Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha. A senior official privy to the investigation said the militants are believed to be part of the TRF’s Falcon Squad. “The operation may have been carried out jointly by local and foreign militants,” the official said, adding that a massive manhunt has been launched in the dense forest region.
Jammu and Kashmir administration declared a day of mourning and announced an ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs two lakh for those seriously injured. Authorities, in coordination with central agencies, are facilitating the transportation of bodies and ensuring the injured receive the best medical care. “Terror will never break our resolve,” Omar vowed. “We will not rest until the perpetrators of this barbarity are brought to justice.”
Protest shutdowns were observed in both Kashmir and parts of Jammu and Ladakh. Religious groups, civil society bodies, and political parties across the spectrum joined hands in mourning and condemnation.
Kashmir valley observed a complete shutdown in response to the attack. In Ladakh, various religious and social groups—including the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) and Anjuman Imamia—observed a half-day shutdown and announced a candlelight vigil. “This is not just an attack on people, but an attack on the values of our land,” said Kunzes Dolma, LBA Vice President.
However, the attack left a trail of panic, particularly among the tourism community. In response, transporters, hoteliers, and local volunteers offered free services to assist tourists in returning to their homes.
“There is no doubt tourists are panicked, but we want to stand with them in this hour of grief,” said a volunteer serving refreshments to security forces in Pahalgam’s main market.