Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday remembered the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on its first anniversary, paying homage to those who lost their lives in the brutal incident and expressing
solidarity with their families.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister mentioned, “Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss.”
Reaffirming India’s firm stand against terrorism, PM Modi added, “As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror. The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks came as tributes were paid across Jammu and Kashmir to commemorate the victims of the April 22 attack that had shocked the nation.
MEMORIAL ERECTED TO HONOUR 26 VICTIMS
According to news agency ANI, a memorial has been constructed in the hill resort of Pahalgam as a tribute to the 25 tourists and a local ponywallah who lost their lives in the terror attack last year.
The black marble structure, engraved with the names of the 26 victims, stands along the banks of the Lidder River near the meadows of Baisaran Valley, serving as a solemn reminder of the tragedy.
Authorities have stepped up security across Kashmir ahead of the first anniversary, deploying additional police and paramilitary personnel in and around Pahalgam.
Security checks have been intensified, and surveillance has increased to ensure a peaceful commemoration of the victims.
Senior officials were quoted as saying that arrangements have been put in place for the memorial event, which is expected to be attended by political leaders, civil society representatives, families of the victims and local stakeholders.
Three months after the incident, three Pakistani terrorists involved in the attack were eliminated by security forces in a gunfight in the Srinagar hills.
However, investigations into the case continued, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filing a chargesheet in mid-December against seven accused.
The chargesheet named Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), its proxy The Resistance Front (TRF), and a handler operating from across the border, among others, in connection with the attack.
POLITICAL RESPONSE AND RESOLUTION IN ASSEMBLY
In a significant political development following the attack, the Jammu and Kashmir government convened a special session of the Legislative Assembly on April 28, 2025.
The House unanimously passed a resolution expressing shock and anguish over the incident and resolved to fight resolutely against attempts to disturb communal harmony and hinder progress in the Union Territory.
The resolution reflected a political consensus against terrorism and emphasised the need to safeguard peace and stability in the region.
TOURISM SHOWING SIGNS OF RECOVERY
Despite the impact of the attack on the region’s tourism sector, stakeholders have indicated signs of recovery in recent months.
ANI reported that sustained outreach and promotional efforts led by the National Conference government, headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, have helped revive tourist confidence.
Several visitors have continued to travel to Pahalgam, expressing satisfaction with the security arrangements and the hospitality of residents.
Tourists said they felt reassured by the peaceful environment and encouraged others to visit the destination.
According to ANI, many travellers emphasised that fear should not deter people from experiencing the natural beauty of Kashmir, with visitors noting the supportive attitude of locals and improved security presence.
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