National Desk
23 April
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist and Research Analysist
A major terror attack occurred in the Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack targeted tourists, and around 26 people are feared dead. The incident caused widespread fear and tension in the region. Following the attack, senior leaders and security agencies rushed into action to review the situation and strengthen security.
Security sources revealed that the attack was a joint plot by banned terrorist groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. These groups reportedly used small “hit squads” to carry out the attack. Their aim was to spread fear among devotees and tourists before the Amarnath Yatra. A similar attack was also reported in Sonmarg recently.
The terror group called “The Resistance Front” (TRF), believed to be a front for Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack. TRF’s special units like the “Hit Squad” and “Falcon Squad” are said to be active in Kashmir. These units are trained in targeted killings and in hiding in forest and mountain regions. Intelligence reports also suggest that the Falcon Squad has received a large cache of modern weapons.
Months ago, an alert was already issued about possible attacks on security forces. Intelligence agencies reported that TRF was using social media to recruit new members. The group operates with “hit-and-run” strategies and works closely with local overground workers. TRF is considered a proxy group of Lashkar-e-Taiba, and it receives support from across the border.
TRF first appeared after the removal of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. It was reportedly created to give cover to terrorist organizations like Lashkar. It is backed by foreign military and intelligence agencies and uses similar funding channels as other terror outfits.
The group was formed in 2019, and since then, it has carried out many attacks. In 2020, TRF became widely known after the brutal killing of local political workers in Kulgam. The group aims to bring back the terror-filled atmosphere of the 1990s in Kashmir.
The attack happened around 3 PM in a place known as “Mini Switzerland,” just 6 kilometers from Pahalgam town. Baisaran Valley is a beautiful meadow surrounded by thick forests and mountains. Eyewitnesses said that armed militants entered the area and opened fire on tourists. It is believed that the terrorists may have entered through South Kashmir’s Kokernag area.
As a result of this incident, high alert has been declared in various states. In Uttarakhand, police are conducting strict vehicle checks and monitoring major locations. Police officials are personally overseeing the operation.
To help tourists, the local administration has set up 24-hour emergency helplines in Anantnag and Srinagar. Tourists seeking help or information can call the helpline numbers provided by the administration.
This tragic attack has once again highlighted the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region. Security forces are on high alert, and steps are being taken to prevent further incidents.