‘Shocked beyond belief’: LG Sinha, CM Omar, Mehbooba condemn Pahalgam militant attack

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti have strongly condemned the militant attack on a group of tourists in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam on Monday afternoon, which has left many injured, as per initial reports.

In a post on X, LG Manoj Sinha, said, “Spoke to the DGP & Security officials. Army and J&K Police teams have rushed to the area and launched search operations.”

He also stated that he has directed the district administration and health officials to provide immediate medical attention to the injured at Pahalgam.

“An injured tourist has been evacuated to GMC Anantnag. I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured,” the LG said.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the attack, stating that he was “shocked beyond belief.”

“I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased,” he said.

He added that he has spoken to his colleague and heath minister Sakina Itoo, who has moved to the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured. “I’ll be flying back to Srinagar immediately,” he said.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also expressed her anguish over the incident, calling the attack “barbaric” and saying such violence tarnishes Kashmir’s centuries-old tradition of hospitality and warmth.

“I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, which tragically killed five and injured several as being reported for now . Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced,” Mehbooba said.

Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists warmly, making this rare incident deeply concerning, she said.

“A thorough investigation is needed to bring the perpetrators to justice and examine potential security lapses. Ensuring visitor safety is paramount, and steps must be taken to prevent future attacks. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” he Mehbooba said.