Supreme Court Expresses Anguish, Strongly Condemns Terrorist Attack on Tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam
In the wake of a horrifying terrorist attack that claimed the lives of at least 26 people and left 10 others injured in Jammu and Kashmir’s scenic Pahalgam region, the Supreme Court of India on Wednesday issued a strong statement of condemnation and expressed profound grief over the tragic incident.
The Court described the act as a “diabolical” and “cowardly” assault on innocent civilians and a brutal attack on humanity itself.
The terrorist strike took place on Tuesday in Baisaran, a popular meadow destination near Pahalgam that draws thousands of tourists every year for its natural beauty and serene landscape.
The attackers, reportedly affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF)—a shadow organization linked to the proscribed Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) terror group—opened fire indiscriminately on a group of tourists who were visiting the region.
The TRF has since claimed responsibility for the massacre, according to intelligence inputs received by central investigative agencies.
In a rare and solemn gesture, the Supreme Court held a full court meeting on Wednesday during which a unanimous resolution was adopted to formally denounce the terrorist attack.
As per the official statement released by the Court, the judges, legal fraternity, and staff members collectively voiced their anguish and dismay over the inhuman act of violence that has left the entire nation in mourning.
The resolution read:
“This diabolical act of mindless violence has shaken the conscience of all and is a stark reminder of the brutality and inhumanity that terrorism unleashes.
The Supreme Court of India pays its respectful tribute to the innocent lives snuffed out brutally and prematurely, while also expressing its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
May the departed souls rest in peace, and may those who were injured recover soon.”
It further added:
“The nation stands united with the victims and their families during this hour of indescribable grief and sorrow.
The attack on tourists, who were peacefully enjoying the breathtaking beauty of what is often referred to as the Crown Jewel of India—Kashmir—is not only an affront to the sanctity of life but also a direct challenge to the values of humanity and civilization itself.
This Court strongly and unequivocally condemns such violence.”
As a mark of respect and solidarity, judges of the apex court, along with lawyers and Registry staff, observed a two-minute silence at 2 PM to honor the memory of those who lost their lives in the attack.
The Court emphasized the need for unity, compassion, and unwavering resolve in the face of such acts of terror that seek to destabilize peace and instill fear.
Preliminary investigations into the attack suggest that a group of four terrorists—two of whom are suspected to be foreign nationalsattackedk while wearing camouflage outfits, enabling them to blend into the environment and surprise the unsuspecting victims.
Security forces are currently combing the region to trace and neutralize the perpetrators. Authorities have also increased surveillance in the region and are analyzing CCTV footage and other digital evidence to aid the probe.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a public statement claiming that Pakistan had no involvement in the incident.
However, Indian intelligence and counter-terrorism agencies continue to investigate all possible leads, including cross-border support and infiltration routes used by the terrorists.
This latest act of terror has sparked outrage and mourning across the country. Citizens, leaders, and institutions have condemned the attack and called for stringent measures to prevent such atrocities in the future.
Security has been further tightened in vulnerable zones across Jammu and Kashmir, and tourist advisories have been revised as a precautionary measure.
The nation watches as the investigation unfolds, hoping for swift justice and accountability, and praying for the recovery of those injured and the solace of the grieving families.
