Pahalgam attack, A simple guide to the Kashmir conflict

                Is the Pahalgam Attack a Political Manoeuvre or a National Tragedy?

Tragic events occurred in India on April 22, 2025, when a group of armed militants attacked tourists in the popular and tranquil Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir. Unexpectedly, the gunmen opened fire, leaving 26 people dead and over 20 injured. A Christian visitor and a local Muslim tour guide who attempted to protect the others were among the dead, although Hindu tourists made up the majority of the victims.

Since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, this attack has been dubbed one of India's worst civilian attacks (Wikipedia). The Resistance Front (TRF), a militant organization, first took credit for the attack, claiming it was a protest against the Indian government's approval of foreign settlement in Kashmir. The group later denied any involvement, though. Digital evidence suggested that the attackers might have had connections in Pakistani cities like Karachi and Muzaffarabad, according to Indian intelligence (The Guardian).

The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded by launching a significant security operation. India closed all travel routes to and from Pakistan, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. Strict anti-terror laws in Kashmir led to the arrest of more than 2,000 people.Additionally, the government began tearing down suspected militants' homes.

Some residents expressed their admiration for this firm response, while others voiced grave concerns. Many innocent people were caught in the middle, as opposition leaders, local families, and human rights organizations have noted. Kashmiris say they feel intimidated, humiliated, and singled out. For many, daily life has become challenging due to the significant military presence and home demolitions.

Critics claim that the government may be exploiting the Pahalgam attack for political purposes now that national elections are approaching. Modi's party can convey a tough-on-terrorism image by responding forcefully and aggressively, which frequently garners votes. According to some analysts, this emphasis on security might be an attempt to divert attention away from other pressing problems like rising inequality, inflation, and unemployment (Al Jazeera).

This trend is not brand-new. Similar tactics were used following the 2019 Pulwama attack, when Modi's popularity surged just before elections thanks to India's military response. Many people worry that history is being repeated.

     The true question is whether the Indian government is using a tragedy to further its political                                    agenda or is it acting to protect its citizens? 

In any case, the people of Kashmir as well as all Indian citizens deserve justice and security, not just attention-grabbing headlines and catchphrases for elections.