In a shocking and deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the death toll has tragically risen to 28, making it one of the deadliest civilian attacks since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Among the victims were Indian Navy Lieutenant Vinay Narwal and Indian Air Force Corporal Tage Hailyang.
Mastermind Behind the Attack: Saifullah Khalid
Top intelligence sources have confirmed that the attack was planned and executed under the leadership of Saifullah Khalid, a notorious commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba. Khalid, also known as Saifullah Kasuri, is believed to be a close aide of the globally wanted terrorist Hafiz Saeed. He led a group of 5 to 6 heavily armed militants in the brutal assault on innocent tourists in the Vaicharan Valley of Pahalgam on Tuesday evening.
Security Forces Launch Manhunt as Death Toll Rises
The attack has sparked widespread outrage across the nation. In response, Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned early from his diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia. He chaired an emergency meeting with key officials, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, to discuss the situation. Meanwhile, security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a massive manhunt for the perpetrators. The attack resulted in the tragic deaths of 28 individuals, including Lt. Vinay Narwal, who was on honeymoon with his wife, and Corporal Tage Hailyang, who was visiting with his wife.
Pakistan Denies Involvement Amid Rising Tensions
Pakistan’s Defence Minister has denied any involvement in the attack, despite widespread suspicions of cross-border terrorism linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba. The country’s denial has done little to ease concerns, with increasing pressure on the international community to take stronger action against such terror organizations. The situation remains tense as India pushes for justice and accountability.
Pahalgam Under Lockdown, Relief Flights for Stranded Tourists
In the aftermath of the attack, Pahalgam has been placed under lockdown, with a bandh declared across the region in honor of the victims. Schools in Jammu and Kashmir have closed, and heightened security measures are in place as authorities continue their investigation. Additionally, Air India and IndiGo have announced relief flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai for stranded tourists, offering waivers on cancellations and rescheduling.
