On April 22, 2025, at least 26 individuals, predominantly tourists including two foreigners, lost their lives in a terrorist attack in Baisaran meadow, a scenic spot near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The assault occurred at 2:30 PM when assailants in military-style clothing opened fire on visitors.
Pahalgam Attack: Major Updates
- PM Modi’s Response: According to India Today sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to chair a Cabinet meeting to address the Jammu and Kashmir attack. He cut short his Saudi Arabia visit, returning to Delhi on Tuesday, ahead of his planned Wednesday return.
- Finance Minister’s Return: Nirmala Sitharaman is abbreviating her US and Peru trip, departing the US early after a six-day visit, with a five-day stop in Peru, to support the nation during this crisis.
- High-Level Security Meeting: Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened an urgent meeting with the Home Secretary, Intelligence Bureau officials, Jammu and Kashmir authorities, and the Director General of Police, who joined virtually.
- Airline Support: Air India announced two extra flights from Srinagar to Delhi (11:30 AM) and Mumbai (noon) on April 23, with bookings open. The airline offered complimentary rescheduling and full refunds for cancellations until April 30. IndiGo issued a travel advisory, providing waivers for rescheduling or cancellations for travel until April 30 and operating two additional Srinagar flights from Delhi and Mumbai on April 23.