Tourists Pay Tribute to Pahalgam Attack Victims on First Anniversary
Bandipora: Tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday paid heartfelt tributes to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack that took place at Razdan Pass in Gurez district last year, marking the first anniversary of the incident that killed 26 people.
Visitors, along with tour operators and drivers, gathered at the high-altitude pass to pray and pay tribute to those who lost their lives in one of the deadliest attacks targeting tourists in Kashmir.
On April 22, 2025, terrorists struck Pahalgam, entered a village and killed 26 civilians. The scenic tourist area was shaken after Pakistan-backed terrorists carried out the attack.
The tragedy left deep emotional scars but could not weaken unity, a tourist from Mumbai told reporters. “No power can divide Kashmir and India. Kashmir’s brotherhood is the strongest example of its inseparable bond. We are deeply saddened, but such incidents cannot break our resolve. We feel safe here and the love shown by the local people is immense.”
Another tourist expressed similar feelings, stating that terrorism cannot divide people. “We want to send a strong message that we are united to those who try to destabilize peace. Terrorism cannot divide us and the unity we see here will always stand stronger.”
Local tourist guides also emphasized that Kashmir continues to warmly welcome visitors despite efforts to disturb the peace. They noted that the participation of tourists in the commemoration reflects resilience and hope.
The commemoration ended with prayers for peace and a collective pledge to preserve unity so that the memories of the victims inspire continued resolve against violence.
A year after the attack, the Indian Army reiterated its commitment to combat terrorism, recalling the decisive military response under Operation Sindoor and warning of strong retaliation against threats against India.
Following the attack, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting the terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). According to official details, Indian armed forces destroyed nine major terror launch pads linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Hizbul Mujahideen and eliminated more than 100 terrorists during the operation.
