Pahalgam (Jammu & Kashmir)

Condemnations have poured in from Muslim leaders across India and international quarters, including the United Arab Emirates following the horrific terror attack that struck Baisaran in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday. The assault claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists, including foreigners, and left more than 20 others grievously injured.

The attack, which targeted a group of tourists enjoying the scenic valley, has sent shockwaves throughout the country.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was among the first international voices to denounce the massacre. In a strong statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said it expresses its strong condemnation of these criminal acts and its permanent rejection of all forms of violence and terrorism aimed at undermining security and stability in contravention of international law”.

The ministry extended its "sincere condolences and sympathy to the government and people of India and to the families of the victims of this heinous attack" along with wishes for a "speedy recovery for all the injured”.

Religious and community leaders from India’s Muslim community also expressed outrage. Syed Naseruddin Chishty, successor to the spiritual head of the Ajmer Dargah, stated, "I am deeply shocked and saddened by the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir that claimed the life of an innocent civilian. This heinous act is not only a black spot on humanity but also a clear violation of the principles of Islam, which stands for peace, compassion and the sanctity of life."

He urged for a response as strong as after the Pulwama attack, adding, "It is time to take decisive action. I urge the Government to take immediate and effective steps to root out terrorism from its very foundation."

Hotel and tourism representatives from Jammu and Kashmir echoed the sentiments. Akib Chaya, president of the Hotelier Club, Gulmarg, called the act a “cowardly and inhuman” assault.

"This cowardly and inhuman act has not only shaken the conscience of every peace-loving citizen but has also left an indelible scar on the soul of our valley," he said.

Chaya added that such attacks are “desperate attempts of misguided and frustrated elements who cannot bear to see the return of peace, progress and harmony in our land”. He called on the government to act decisively and ensure justice is delivered swiftly.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the attack as an "abomination”.
"This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals — inhuman and worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough," he said.

Abdullah assured that he was in constant touch with officials, noting that Health Minister Sakina Itoo had rushed to the hospital to oversee treatment for the injured.

Former Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the violence:
"I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam… Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced. A thorough investigation is needed to bring the perpetrators to justice."

Sajad Lone, chief of the People's Conference, lashed out at those behind the attack:
"For decades we have been identified with being great hosts… And some cowardly terrorists want to destroy it all… These terror attacks are aimed at yet again disempowering us economically… Please get out of our lives. These tourists are our revered guests."

Senior CPI(M) leader M. Y. Tarigami and Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq both described the violence as inhuman and against the ethos of Kashmir. “Such cowardly attacks on innocent civilians have no place in any civilised society,” said Tarigami, while the Mirwaiz added, “Such violence is unacceptable and against the ethos of Kashmir which welcomes visitors with love and warmth.”

JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra questioned the government’s claims of normalcy in the region: “On the one hand, the BJP claims that terrorism has been wiped out… But such attacks expose the loopholes we have been highlighting for a long time.”

He said the government must “clarify the actual situation on the ground”, adding that selling an image of calm while reality differs is not sustainable.

PDP MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra said, "This senseless violence serves no purpose, defies all sense and humanity. Kashmir has suffered enough."

PDP leader Iltija Mufti called it a “shameful act of violence” and requested media to act responsibly to avoid panic among tourists. “Kashmiris have always welcomed tourists with open arms & this incident is most unfortunate,” she said.

Apni Party President Syed Altaf Bukhari echoed similar thoughts: “Targeting innocent tourists is an act of cowardice and a worst form of terrorism… My thoughts and prayers are with the injured for a full and speedy recovery.”

J&K People's Democratic Front President Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen described the incident as the “worst form of terrorism”, expressing deep sorrow and demanding justice for the victims.

Kashmir Valley’s commercial community also voiced its grief. The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) condemned the “dastardly act” and demanded a fast-track investigation. "This targeted attack is clearly designed to harm Kashmir's reputation and undermine the flourishing tourism industry," it said.

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The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union also issued a strong condemnation. "Such violence is unacceptable and against the ethos of Kashmir which always welcomes visitors with love and warmth," the union said, praying for the recovery of the injured and calling the attack “not on tourists but on humanity”.

As investigations continue, leaders and citizens alike are left grappling with the gravity of the incident, vowing to not let terrorism define the valley's future.