At least 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were killed in a terror attack on Pahalgam, in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district. Sources said this is the deadliest terror attack in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama strike.

The attack happened at Baisaran, a popular meadow that can only be reached on foot or by pony. A group of tourists had gone there in the morning when the attack took place.

Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to those who died and met with the survivors. He said the government stands with the victims and their families during this difficult time.

The Resistance Front, a group linked to the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the attack. However, a government confirmation on this is still awaited.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to Saudi Arabia, returned to India early this morning. He said, "Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice and will not be spared." He held an important meeting at the Delhi airport with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.

World leaders like US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the attack and showed support for India.

Helpline numbers released for tourists and families:

  • Emergency Control Room, Srinagar: 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651, 7006058623
  • 24/7 Tourist Help Desk – Police Control Room, Anantnag: 9596777669, 01932-225870, WhatsApp: 9419051940
  • J&K Tourist Department: 8899931010, 8899941010, 9906663868, 9906906115

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