On 22 April 2025, the peaceful and heaven-like Baisaran area near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir became the site of one of the deadliest terror attacks in the region since the 2019 Pulwama strike. The attack, claimed by Pakistan-based terror group— Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)’s offshoot—The Resistance Front (TRF), resulted in the deaths of at least 26 people, including one Nepali citizen, with over 20 others injured. The terrorists selectively targeted the male Hindu members of the tourist group. This article analyses the context, motives, execution, and broader implications of the attack, situating it within the evolving security dynamics of Jammu and Kashmir.

Background

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has experienced Pakistan’s proxy war in the form of terrorism since 1989. However, violence has significantly declined recently due to Bharat’s robust counter-terrorism measures in the Valley. In August 2019, the Bharatiya government nullified Article 370, revoking the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K)’s special status and reorganising it into two union territories—Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The essential measure intended to integrate the region with Bharat fully involves various Constitutional and legal elements. This action can potentially create misinformation and sensitivities among the local population concerning demographic changes. The Pahalgam attack is a significant incident after the Pulwama attack, targeting civilians in a popular tourist destination. The attack signalled frustration and a shift in terror groups’ strategy to disrupt the region’s growing tourism sector and challenge the narrative of normalcy post-assembly elections in October 2024.

The Massacre: Execution and Tactics

The attack occurred in the afternoon on 22 April 2025, in Baisaran Valley, in Pahalgam town in Anantnag district. Due to its serene natural view and central location among dense pine forests, Baisaran Valley is also famously called “mini-Switzerland”. Accessible only by foot or pony, Baisaran Valley was crowded with tourists enjoying pleasant weather. According to several news reports, five Islamic terrorists, armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s, emerged from nearby forests, dressed in military-style camouflaged uniforms. ^[1] Survivors reported that the attackers singled out Hindus by checking names and stripping the male members below the waist to inspect for circumcisions and demanding them recite the Kalma (Islamic verse). The inspection indicates a religiously motivated targeting strategy of terrorists.

The precision and brutality of the attack suggest meticulous planning. Intelligence sources indicate that the operation was masterminded by Saifullah Kasuri, a senior LeT commander and close aide of LeT founder Hafiz Saeed, with support from two Pakistan-based operatives. ^[2] The use of body cameras to record the assault, a tactic associated with LeT propaganda, underscores the intent to amplify the attack’s psychological impact.

A local Kashmiri Shia Muslim, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, attempted to intervene by snatching a rifle from one of the terrorists but was killed. ^[3] After the carnage of 15-20 minutes, the terrorists fled to the Pir Panjal range, prompting a joint operation by the security forces, comprising of the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, and J&K police, supported by helicopters and a temporary lockdown in Pahalgam.

Timing and Motive of the Attack

The TRF’s statement claimed the terror attack was a response to issuing over 85,000 domiciles to non-locals, which they alleged facilitated demographic changes in Jammu and Kashmir. By framing their actions as resistance to “local oppression,” the TRF sought to portray the attack as an indigenous uprising rather than a religiously driven act of terror. However, the targeting of Hindu tourists and the group’s reliance on LeT’s infrastructure suggest a broader agenda of destabilising the region and polarising communities along religious lines.

The timing of the attack, coinciding with high-profile visits by U.S. Vice President J D Vance to Bharat and Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia, indicates an intent to maximise global attention. By targeting tourists, the TRF aimed to weaken J&K’s tourism-driven economy, which has seen a resurgence in recent years, and deter future visitors ahead of events like the Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to commence on 03 July and conclude on 09 August 2025. The attack also sought to undermine Bharat’s claims of restored normalcy in the Valley, challenging the security apparatus.

The Resistance Front: A Proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba

The Resistance Front (TRF) is a sophisticated proxy of LeT designed to give terrorism in Kashmir a false indigenous face. Founded by Sheikh Sajjad Gul, with Basit Ahmed Dar as its chief operational commander, the TRF extensively use digital platforms for propaganda, recruitment, and radicalisation, along with funding channels linked to LeT and its dependence on support from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Directorate.

According to the J&K police’s 2022 report, out of the 172 terrorists eliminated in counter-terrorism operations in the Valley, 108 were affiliated with TRF. Additionally, out of 100 individuals recruited by various terror outfits, TRF was responsible for recruiting 74. ^[4] In January 2024, TRF published its “Annual Report 2023,” claiming responsibility for 68 attacks across J&K, Delhi, and the Union Territory of Ladakh. The breakdown shows 64 incidents in J&K—26 in South Kashmir, 7 in North Kashmir, 24 in Central Kashmir, and 7 in Jammu—along with three attacks in Ladakh and one in Delhi. ^[5]

On 05 January 2023— almost three years after its formation—the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) designated TRF as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], 1967. According to the official notification, “The Resistance Front came into existence in the year 2019 as a proxy outfit of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a proscribed terrorist organisation listed at serial number 5 of the first schedule under the UAPA.”^[6] The group’s rise reflects Pakistan’s strategic shift to avoid scrutiny from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) by distancing itself from overtly religious outfits like LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). The TRF’s name, devoid of Islamic connotations, was chosen to resonate globally as a “resistance” movement.

In an article titled “Hamas-Pakistan Terror Nexus in PoJK: A Wake-Up Call for Bharat”^[7], published at the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) on 12 March 2025, the author underscores the emerging nexus between Hamas and Pakistan-based terrorist groups like LeT and JeM, as evidenced by their joint participation in a conference in PoJK in February 2025. This alliance, rooted in shared ideological goals despite doctrinal differences, poses a significant security concern for Bharat. A recent news report by ,i>Republic World highlights a clandestine meeting between Hamas leaders and Pakistani terrorist organisations, including LeT, in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, just four days prior to the Pahalgam terror attack. This meeting, characterised by significant security measures and the display of both Hamas and LeT flags, suggests a coordinated effort between these groups. ^[8]

The terror outfit has carried out attacks targeting security personnel and civilians—particularly minorities and migrant workers—in Jammu and Kashmir. Unlike many other extremist groups, TRF’s name does not reference Jihad or Islam. This choice of terminology appears intended to frame its violence as politically driven rather than as a religious crusade— Jihad, against non-believers or infidels. ^[9] Despite this rebranding, its actions—such as the Pahalgam attack and prior strikes on Kashmiri Pandits, migrant workers, and security forces—mirror LeT’s jihadist ideology.

Bharat’s Response to the Attack and Pakistan’s Reaction

The Pahalgam attack has far-reaching implications for J&K’s security and broader counter-terrorism strategy. The targeting of tourists, a rare occurrence in recent years, threatens to reverse gains in the region’s tourism sector, with reports of cancellations and an exodus of visitors following the attack. The incident has also reignited debates over the government’s security policies, with opposition parties questioning claims of normalcy and demanding accountability.

Bharat’s response has been swift and multifaceted. Prime Minister Modi cut short his Saudi Arabia visit to chair an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which announced five retaliatory measures: suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, closing the Attari border post, expelling Pakistani military attaches, cancelling SAARC visas for Pakistani nationals, and reducing diplomatic staff in both countries’ high commissions. ^[10] These steps signal a significant downgrade in Bharat-Pakistan relations, with the CCS emphasising that the perpetrators and their sponsors will be held accountable. In his address at the National Panchayati Raj Day programme in Madhubani, Bihar, on 24 April, PM Modi paid tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and conveyed a clear message-

“I want to say in very clear words, those terrorists who have carried out this attack and those who conspired for this attack will get a punishment bigger than they could have ever imagined. Now the time has come to destroy the remaining ground of the terrorists. The willpower of 140 crore Indians will now break the back of the masters of terror.” ^[11]
Security forces have detained over 2,000 individuals comprised of former terrorists and Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) in Kashmir for questioning, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other investigation agencies are also probing the attack and searching cyber activities to identify people in the Valley who came in contact with the LeT and its proxy group— TRF. Based on eyewitness accounts, J&K Police, on 23 April, released the sketches of four terrorists— i) Ali Bhai aka Talha (Pakistani), ii) Asif Fauji (Pakistani), iii) Adil Hussain Thoker (resident of Anantnag) and iv) Ahsan (resident of Pulwama) ^[12], and announced that any information leading to the neutralisation of the terrorists involved in this cowardly attack shall be awarded ₹20 lakh. ^[13] The move reflects an aggressive pursuit of the perpetrators. Two houses belonging to LeT/TRF terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack— Adil Hussain Thokar and Asif Sheikh, were destroyed in a blast in Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces were searching for the homes when explosives planted inside detonated. ^[14]

At the time of the writing of this article, on 25 April, three separate counter-terrorism (CT) operations are ongoing in the Valley to eliminate terrorists. In an operation in the general area of Kolnar Ajas in Bandipora, security forces eliminated the top LeT commander— Altaf Ali. On the same day, Chief of Army Staff (COAS)— General Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Srinagar to take a full security review of the situation and brief on the ongoing CT operation by security forces to hunt down seven LeT terrorists. In the afternoon, Lt Governor of J&K, Manoj Sinha, also chaired a security review meeting with COAS General Dwivedi, Deputy Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C Northern Command Lt Gen Suchindra Kumar, and GoC 15 Corps Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava. During the night of 25th-26th April, the Pakistan army violated the ceasefire and initiated unprovoked small arms fire across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. The Indian army responded appropriately to the situation. There were no reported casualties on either side. ^[15]

Bharat confirmed Pakistan’s involvement in orchestrating the terrorist attack based on a joint probe by intelligence agencies, forensic experts, and security forces. The probe found evidence of a well-planned, externally coordinated operation. Intelligence intercepts showed direct communication between the attackers and handlers in Pakistan, with digital traces leading to safe houses in Muzaffarabad and Karachi. Forensic findings confirmed the use of military-grade weapons and advanced communication tools, indicating the attackers were highly trained and supported by experienced operatives, possibly including local sleeper cells with cross-border linkages. ^[16]

Global Reaction

The attack drew widespread condemnation from world leaders, including the United States of America (U.S.A) President Donald J. Trump, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and leaders from Israel, Argentina, and Canada. The U.S. pledge of support and Trump’s call to Bharatiya Prime Minister Modi highlighted the attack’s international ramifications, particularly given its timing during Vice-President Vance’s visit to Bharat. The U.N. Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Stephane Dujarric, informed in a daily press briefing that “we (U.N.) were very clear in our condemnation of the terror attack that occurred in Jammu and Kashmir, on the 22nd, which killed a large number of civilians.”^[17]

In response to Bharat’s strong message and five steps against the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan denied its involvement and has closed its airspace to Indian airlines, suspended trade with Bharat, cancelled visas for Bharatiyas, and issued warned that any interference with its water rights could be considered an act of war. However, its defence minister admitted to the past support for terrorism. In an interview with Sky News on 25 April, Pakistan’s defence minister— Khwaja Asif, responded to a question about Pakistan’s history of supporting, training and funding terrorist organisations. Minister Khwaja Asif said, “We have been doing this dirty work for the United States for about three decades... and the West, including Britain...That was a mistake, and we suffered for that, and that is why you are saying this to me.”^[18]

Way Ahead!

The Pahalgam terror attack of 22 April 2025, orchestrated by the TRF under LeT’s aegis, represents a calculated escalation in terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. By targeting tourists, the terrorists sought to disrupt the region’s economy, sow fear, and challenge Bharat’s security narrative. The attack’s religious targeting and sophisticated execution underscore the TRF’s role as a potent proxy of LeT, backed by Pakistan. Bharat’s robust response, both domestically and diplomatically, signals a determination to counter this threat. However, the incident highlights the need for sustained counter-terrorism efforts and regional cooperation to address the root causes of terrorism. As Jammu and Kashmir address this crisis, the attack underscores the delicate security situation, and the continuous efforts required to achieve sustainable peace.

Endnotes

^[1] Tiwary, Deeptiman, Bashaarat Masood, and Mahendra Singh Manral. “Probe indicates 5 terrorists, including 3 from Pakistan, behind Pahalgam attack”, The Indian Express, 24 April 2025, available from: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/pahalgam-attack-terrorists-pakistan-9961045/
^[2] “Top Lashkar commander planned Pahalgam carnage that left 26 dead: sources”, India Today, 23 April 2025, available from: https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pahalgam-jammu-kashmir-terror-attack-pm-modi-security-meeting-lashkar-trf-deaths-eyewitness-amit-shah-rahul-gandhi-2713170-2025-04-23
^[3] Yattoo, Irfan. “Pahalgam terror attack: ‘he shielded tourists, took bullets, he died a hero’: father of Adil Shah”, Rising Kashmir, 25 April 2025, available from: https://risingkashmir.com/pahalgam-terror-attack-he-shielded-tourists-took-bullets-he-died-a-hero-father-of-adil-shah/
^[4] Sagar, Pradip R. “why The Resistance Front was under terror watch in Kashmir”, India Today, 01 August 2023, available from: https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/why-the-resistance-front-was-under-terror-watch-in-kashmir-2318904-2023-01-08
^[5] “TRF Annual Report 2023”. (official website of the TRF)
^[6] “List of organisations designated as terrorist organization under Section 35 of the UAPA, 1967, listed in the 1st Schedule of the Act”, Government of India-Ministry of Home Affairs, March 2023, available from: https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-03/TERRORIST_ORGANIZATIONS_10032023.pdf
^[7] Sharma, Anurag. “Hamas-Pakistan Terror Nexus in PoJK: A Wake-Up Call for Bharat?”, Vivekananda International Foundation, 12 March 2025, available from: https://www.vifindia.org/2025/march/12/Hamas-Pakistan-Terror-Nexus-in-PoJK-A-Wake-Up-Call-for-Bharat
^[8] Bhandari, Shashwat. “Hamas leaders get big reception in Pakistan 4 days before Pahalgam terror attack”, Republic World, 24 April 2025, available from: https://www.republicworld.com/india/hamas-pak-leaders-secret-meeting-in-pakistan-days-before-pahalgam-terror-attack-big-conspiracy
^[9] Basak, Saptarishi. “The Resistance Front: The Invisible, LeT-backed outfit terrorising Kashmir”, The Quint, 11 October 2021, available from: https://www.thequint.com/news/india/the-resistance-front-the-invisible-let-backed-outfit-terrorising-kashmir
^[10] “Statement by Foreign Secretary on the decision of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS)”, Ministry of External Affairs, 23 April 2025, available from: https://www.mea.gov.in/Speeches-Statements.htm?dtl/39442
^[11] “PM’s address at the National Panchayati Raj Day program and launch of development works in Madhubani, Bihar”, PMIndia, 24 April 2025, available from: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-at-the-national-panchayati-raj-day-program-and-launch-of-development-works-in-madhubani-bihar/
^[12] Chauhan, Neeraj and Mir Ehsan. “Who are 3 terrorists involved in gruesome Pahalgam attack? J&K police reveals identities”, Hindustan Times, 25 April 2025, available from: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/faces-of-pahalgam-terrorists-revealed-who-are-these-3-men-in-jammu-and-kashmir-police-sketches-hashim-musa-ali-talha-101745553794402.html
^[13] “Cash Reward Announcement”, Anantnag Police, 23 April 2025, 08:34 PM, available from: https://x.com/AnantnagPolice/status/1915059132769730904
^[14] “Pahalgam attack: Houses of two LeT terrorists destroyed in blast”, Press Trust of India, 25 April 2025, available from: https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/Pahalgam-attack--Houses-of-two-LeT-terrorists-destroyed-in-blast/2496820
^[15] “Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC yet again, Indian Army fires back”, Hindustan Times/MSN, 26 April 2025, available from: https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/India/pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-yet-again-indian-army-fires-back/ar-AA1DEasW
^[16] Pandey, Munish Chandra. “Digital footprints, forensics link Pahalgam attack to Pakistan safe houses”, India Today, 23 April 2025, available from: https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/digital-footprints-forensics-link-pahalgam-attack-to-pakistan-safe-houses-2713396-2025-04-23
^[17] Singh, Yoshita. “Pahalgam attack: UN chief Guterres urges India, Pakistan to exercise ‘maximum restraint’”, Press Trust of India, 25 April 2025, available from: https://www.ptinews.com/story/international/Pahalgam-attack--UN-chief-Guterres-urges-India--Pakistan-to-exercise--maximum-restraint-/2496867
^[18] ANI. “Pakistan Defence Minister admits support for terror groups, says did this dirty work for US”, ANI, 25 April 2025, available from: https://www.msn.com/en-xl/politics/government/pakistan-defence-minister-admits-support-for-terror-groups-says-did-this-dirty-work-for-us/ar-AA1DALIu

(The paper is the author’s individual scholastic articulation. The author certifies that the article/paper is original in content, unpublished and it has not been submitted for publication/web upload elsewhere, and that the facts and figures quoted are duly referenced, as needed, and are believed to be correct). (The paper does not necessarily represent the organisational stance... More >>