The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, has sent shockwaves across India and the global community. In one of the most tragic and brutal acts of violence in recent years, 26 civilians mostly tourists were gunned down in cold blood in Baisaran meadow, a picturesque location near the town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. This horrifying incident has topped the latest news headlines and is now part of the Top 10 News today across major news portals.
The victims, hailing from different parts of India and one from Nepal, were targeted while trekking in the high-altitude meadow, which is usually considered a peaceful tourist destination. The attack was sudden, intense, and methodically executed, according to eyewitness accounts.
Attack Details and What Happened(Pahalgam terror attack )
The incident occurred around 3:00 PM IST, when armed militants opened fire on a group of tourists, many of whom had arrived earlier that morning. Security sources reported that the attackers used sophisticated assault rifles and had knowledge of the terrain, suggesting local support.
As part of the breaking news coverage, several survivors claimed that the attackers selectively targeted Hindu men, reminiscent of tactics used in earlier attacks in the region. The Baisaran valley, located 5 km from Pahalgam town, is accessible only by foot or pony ride, complicating rescue efforts.
NIA Investigation Begins
As part of trending news updates, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the probe. Preliminary findings suggest that the attack was orchestrated by Pakistan-based militant groups, with possible involvement from Hizbul Mujahideen and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The agency has launched a comprehensive search operation, working alongside the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police. Local informants are being questioned, and digital evidence from nearby villages is being scanned for clues.
Government Response: Major Diplomatic Steps
Making headlines in the Top 10 News today, the Government of India responded swiftly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened an emergency Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on April 23. The committee decided to take strong diplomatic and strategic actions:
India has withdrawn its defence, navy, and air advisers from the High Commission in Islamabad.
The overall staff at the Indian mission in Pakistan has been reduced from 55 to 30, effective May 1.
Most significantly, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a longstanding bilateral agreement on river water sharing with Pakistan.
Heightened Security Across Jammu and Kashmir
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, security across Jammu and Kashmir has been intensified. Multiple cordon-and-search operations are being carried out in Anantnag, Pulwama, and Sopore. Drone surveillance and satellite monitoring have also been deployed to identify militant hideouts.
Local authorities have urged tourists to temporarily avoid offbeat paths and isolated destinations. Security forces remain on high alert, with additional deployments from the Army and paramilitary units in vulnerable regions.