Srinagar : Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha arrived at the Police Control Room (PCR) in Srinagar on Wednesday to pay solemn tributes to the 16 tourists killed in Tuesday’s terror attack in Pahalgam.
The attack, which took place in the scenic Baisaran area of Pahalgam, has sent shockwaves across the country. The victims’ bodies were brought to Srinagar earlier this morning, where top security and administrative officials gathered to honor the lives lost in what is being described as one of the most brutal assaults on civilians in recent years.
Following the tribute, Home Minister Shah is scheduled to visit Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag to meet those injured in the incident. He is also likely to undertake an aerial survey of the attack site to assess the security situation and ongoing operations.
In a swift response, the Civil Aviation Ministry has arranged four special flights from Srinagar—two each to Mumbai and Delhi—to facilitate the transportation of victims’ bodies and stranded tourists. Authorities are working to ensure airfare remains stable amid the travel rush, especially as the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains closed for the fourth consecutive day due to adverse conditions.
A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) landed in Srinagar today and is on its way to Pahalgam to begin forensic and intelligence-gathering operations. A massive manhunt was launched in the region immediately after the attack to track down the perpetrators.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the terror strike, stating it has “redoubled the nation’s resolve to eradicate terrorism from Indian soil.”
In the wake of the tragedy, a Valley-wide shutdown was observed, called by various political, trade, and civil society groups. Life across Kashmir came to a standstill as shops, businesses, schools, and public transport remained closed. Streets, usually bustling with activity, wore a deserted look with minimal vehicular movement.
The attack has reignited concerns about security in the region, particularly with the summer tourism season approaching. Investigations are ongoing, and further security measures are expected to be announced in the coming days.
