Jobaaj Stories
A deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, sparking fears of further military conflict between the nuclear-armed nations.
What Happened in Pahalgam?
On Tuesday, gunmen opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam, a popular travel destination in Kashmir. The attack killed at least 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. The massacre took place in a valley that is only accessible by foot or horseback, with eyewitnesses describing scenes of horror as the assailants shot at close range. Some survivors reported that the gunmen singled out men, accusing them of supporting Prime Minister Modi’s government. This attack is seen as a direct consequence of the region’s ongoing tensions.
Kashmir's Longstanding Dispute
Kashmir has been a contentious region since the partition of British India in 1947. Both India and Pakistan claim the territory in full and have fought multiple wars over it. Despite India’s claims that militancy has reduced since the revocation of Kashmir's autonomy in 2019, Tuesday’s massacre challenges this assertion.
The revocation led to widespread protests and further polarized the region, with some local groups seeking either independence or integration with Pakistan. Militancy in Kashmir has historically been a point of contention, with India accusing Pakistan of supporting militants, a claim Pakistan denies.
Who Are the Alleged Attackers – Kashmir Resistance?
A militant group, Kashmir Resistance (also known as The Resistance Front, or TRF), claimed responsibility for the attack. They criticized the settlement of "outsiders" in the region, which they say has altered the demographic balance. While TRF’s claim cannot be independently verified, Indian authorities have linked the group to the banned Islamist organization Lashkar-e-Tayyiba. Police have named three suspects involved, two of whom are reportedly Pakistani nationals.
India and Pakistan's Responses
India has accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism and has taken retaliatory measures, including suspending its participation in the Indus Water Treaty, a crucial water-sharing agreement between the two nations. Pakistan has condemned India’s actions, labeling them as politically motivated and unjust.
The Pakistan government has also announced the suspension of trade with India and the closure of its airspace. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has urged India to provide proof of Pakistan's involvement in the attack.
Security Situation in Kashmir
The security situation in Kashmir remains tense as Indian forces continue to search for suspects involved in the attack. Protests have erupted across the region, with some calling for solidarity and condemning the killings. Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi is expected to visit Kashmir to assess the situation.
What Comes Next?
Analysts fear that this incident could trigger further military escalation between India and Pakistan. The 2019 Balakot airstrikes, following a militant attack that killed 40 Indian paramilitary personnel, offer a precedent for India’s possible response. Experts are watching closely to see whether India will target terrorist group leadership or escalate further into military confrontation.
