New Delhi, 23 April : In a swift response to the tragic terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to New Delhi early Wednesday morning, cutting short his official visit to Saudi Arabia. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister held an urgent meeting with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and the Foreign Secretary right at the airport.

The attack, which unfolded in the Baisaran region of Pahalgam—popularly referred to as ‘mini Switzerland’ due to its scenic meadows—claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists. According to initial reports, the assailants descended from the surrounding mountains and opened indiscriminate fire on civilians around 3 PM. Gunshots echoed through the valley, prompting immediate deployment of security forces.

Evacuation operations were quickly launched. Injured individuals were airlifted by helicopter, while some were brought down by locals using ponies. The area, a key tourist hub, had been witnessing a significant revival in tourism after years of militancy. The attack comes just weeks before the scheduled start of the 38-day Amarnath Yatra on July 3.

As of now, over 20 people are reported injured. The Jammu and Kashmir administration has activated emergency helplines for assistance:
• Emergency Control Room – Srinagar: 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651
• Adil Fareed, ADC Srinagar: 7006058623

PM Modi condemned the attack in the strongest terms, assuring that the perpetrators will face justice and reiterating India’s unwavering commitment to combat terrorism. His early return underlined the gravity of the incident, as he even skipped an official dinner hosted by Saudi Arabia.

Opposition Leader and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also reacted strongly, stating he had spoken with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Congress’ J&K unit president Tariq Karra. Gandhi emphasized that the victims’ families deserve justice and complete support.

The international community stood in solidarity with India. US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were among world leaders who condemned the attack. In a phone call with PM Modi, President Trump pledged full support in ensuring the terrorists are brought to justice.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also decided to curtail her official trip to the US and Peru. Initially scheduled for an 11-day visit, she will now return to India at the earliest, according to an official release.

Security operations are ongoing in the Baisaran area as the nation mourns this horrific act of terror, even as authorities ramp up efforts to maintain peace and ensure the safety of civilians in Jammu and Kashmir.