Modi and Shah Rush to Action After Pahalgam Terror Attack: 10 Major Updates

Srinagar: In the wake of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday, high-ranking political leaders across India swiftly took action, signaling a united response to the crisis. The attack, which targeted tourists in the popular meadow of Baisaran, claimed the lives of 26 people, with the majority being visitors from various states. The terror assault has sparked a flurry of political reactions and has led to key leaders altering their schedules to address the situation.

Prime Minister Modi Cuts Short Saudi Visit:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in Saudi Arabia for an official visit, returned to India on Wednesday morning following the tragic attack. Upon his arrival in Delhi, he immediately convened a meeting at the airport with national security advisors, the external affairs minister, and other officials to assess the situation.

Amit Shah Heads to Jammu and Kashmir:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, showing swift leadership, departed for Jammu and Kashmir shortly after the news of the attack broke. Upon arrival, he was briefed by Jammu and Kashmir’s Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, with top officials such as Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan also present.

Rahul Gandhi Reaches Out to Amit Shah:

On Wednesday morning, Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi, through a phone call, reached out to Amit Shah to inquire about the developments surrounding the Pahalgam attack. Gandhi expressed his concerns over the attack and emphasized the need for justice for the victims and their families.

Congress Leaders Demand Justice:

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also condemned the attack, stating that the perpetrators must face punishment. “The innocent victims must get justice,” Kharge said in a statement, reinforcing his call for accountability.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Returns Early:

In response to the attack, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also made the decision to cut short her official trip to the US and Peru. She is expected to return to India as soon as possible, as confirmed by her office.

Global Leaders Express Solidarity:

The attack has not only drawn attention within India but also from global leaders. US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer all expressed strong condemnation of the violence, offering full support to India during this difficult time. Trump assured Prime Minister Modi and the people of India of the US’s unwavering support.

The Terror Attack:

The attack occurred during the peak tourist season, with gunfire erupting around 3 pm in Baisaran, a scenic area known as “mini Switzerland.” Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with terrorists firing indiscriminately at tourists, including those enjoying pony rides or relaxing at local eateries. The Resistance Front (TRF), a group with ties to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Victims Identified:

By Wednesday morning, authorities had identified the 26 victims, who hailed from states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Among the injured were several people from Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.