SAD NEWS: 30 Minutes Ago in Kashmir, Terror Attack in Pahalgam Leaves 26 Dead, Including Women and Children
Pahalgam, Kashmir – April 23, 2025 | Breaking News
In a horrifying turn of events that has left the nation and the international community shaken, a group of armed terrorists opened fire on a crowded marketplace in Pahalgam, a peaceful town nestled in the scenic Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The tragic incident took place just 30 minutes ago and has already claimed the lives of at least 26 innocent people, including women, children, and elderly citizens.
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Chaos and Terror
The attack occurred at around 4:30 PM local time, when the bustling town center was filled with locals and tourists enjoying the late afternoon. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a sudden barrage of gunfire erupt from multiple directions.
“It was like a nightmare,” said one survivor, visibly shaken. “There was no warning. People were running, screaming… and then they just started falling.”
Initial reports suggest the attackers arrived in civilian clothing, possibly blending in with the crowd before launching their assault with automatic rifles. The entire attack reportedly lasted less than 10 minutes, but its impact has been devastating.
Victims Include Families, Children
Among the deceased are at least 5 children and 6 women, according to early medical reports. Hospitals in Anantnag and Srinagar have declared emergencies as they struggle to treat the dozens of injured, some of whom are in critical condition.
Local authorities have confirmed that more than 35 people were injured, with many requiring urgent surgery. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with security forces cordoning off the area and launching a massive manhunt for the perpetrators.
Official Response and Nationwide Condolences
Kashmir’s police chief, in a brief but emotional statement, condemned the attack as “a brutal act of cowardice,” and assured that “those responsible will be hunted down and brought to justice.”
India’s Prime Minister also issued a statement moments ago, expressing deep sorrow:
“I am heartbroken by the loss of innocent lives in Pahalgam. This senseless act of violence will not go unanswered. My thoughts are with the families of the victims, and the entire nation mourns with them.”
Condolences are pouring in from across the world, with leaders from the U.S., U.K., France, and the United Nations calling the attack “abhorrent,” and urging for a united stand against terrorism.
A Town Known for Peace Now Gripped by Pain
Pahalgam, once known as a tranquil tourist haven surrounded by lush valleys and pilgrimage trails, has now become the site of one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Kashmir in recent years.
Shops are shuttered, the streets eerily empty, and a heavy military presence now blankets the town as security forces work tirelessly to secure the area and support the victims.
What Happens Next
Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage and intelligence reports to identify the group behind the attack. No terrorist organization has claimed responsibility as of yet, but officials suspect involvement from a cross-border militant group with a history of orchestrating similar attacks.
Meanwhile, India has raised its national terror alert level, and security has been tightened across major cities and vulnerable regions.
In Mourning, A Nation Stands Together
As the sun sets over the snow-capped peaks of Pahalgam tonight, it does so over a town in grief — and a country in mourning. Flags will fly at half-mast tomorrow as a mark of respect for the victims. Candlelight vigils are already being organized in cities across India.
This is not just a moment of tragedy — it’s a reminder of the resilience of a people who have suffered too much, yet refuse to give in to fear.
