Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia and is returning to India following a deadly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The attack, which claimed the lives of at least 28 people including foreign nationals, has triggered widespread outrage. PM Narendra Modi condemned the violence, expressing grief for the victims and vowing a strong response against those responsible.
The Prime Minister was in Saudi Arabia for a scheduled diplomatic visit and had hosted a dinner for US Vice President JD Vance, who is currently in India on a three-day visit. However, after being briefed about the Pahalgam tragedy by Home Minister Amit Shah, PM Narendra Modi immediately decided to conclude his trip and return to New Delhi.
The assault took place in the scenic Bainsram meadows of Pahalgam, where tourists were ambushed by militants linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba’s offshoot, The Resistance Front. The attack left scores injured, many critically, and sent shockwaves across the country. Among the victims were foreign tourists, which has heightened global attention on the incident.
Home Minister Amit Shah, who briefed the Prime Minister soon after the attack, stated that the government would take stern action. Security forces have been put on high alert, and a massive manhunt is underway to track down the perpetrators. The Prime Minister, in a social media statement, said, “Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice. They will not be spared.”
Union ministers Kiren Rijiju and S Jaishankar also strongly condemned the attack. Rijiju expressed deep sorrow, saying no words could console the families who lost their loved ones. He added that a “befitting reply” will follow. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar echoed similar sentiments, calling the act cowardly and expressing solidarity with the victims.
The incident occurred at a time when the Indian government was engaging in key international dialogues. The sudden escalation in violence has disrupted the diplomatic momentum and refocused attention on the enduring threat of terrorism in the region.
PM Narendra Modi’s swift return signals the seriousness with which the government is treating the attack. As investigations progress and security is tightened in the valley, national and international focus remains fixed on India’s response to this tragedy.
