Protests broke out across India after a deadly attack in the disputed region of Kashmir killed at least 26 people, most of them tourists. The assault, which occurred on Tuesday, marks one of the deadliest incidents in the region in recent years and has reignited tensions between India and Pakistan.
Who Were the Victims?
Authorities confirmed that 24 of the victims were Indian tourists visiting the region. One person was a tourist from Nepal, and another worked as a local guide. In addition to the fatalities, at least 17 people were injured in the attack. Police labeled the incident a “terror attack” and blamed it on anti-India militant groups operating in Kashmir.
Nationwide Protests and Political Fallout
Within hours of the attack, thousands of people took to the streets in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities. Protesters carried signs demanding justice and stricter security measures in Kashmir. Some also called for strong action against groups believed to be behind the assault.
Although Indian government officials have not made formal accusations, the country’s media quickly pointed fingers at Pakistan. Several TV anchors and commentators linked the attack to Pakistan-based militants, though no concrete evidence was presented.
India Reacts with Diplomatic and Policy Moves
Following the attack, India took several steps that signaled a breakdown in diplomatic relations with Pakistan. These included:
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Closing its main border crossing with Pakistan
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Suspending a water-sharing agreement under the Indus Waters Treaty
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Downgrading diplomatic ties between the two countries
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement rejecting all accusations. “We strongly deny any involvement and express our deep sorrow for the innocent lives lost,” the statement read. “We extend our condolences to the families of the victims and hope for the injured to recover soon.”
Unknown Group Claims Responsibility
Adding to the confusion, a new group calling itself Kashmir Resistance posted on social media claiming responsibility for the attack. In its post, the group stated it had targeted individuals it believed were connected to Indian security forces, not ordinary tourists.
The group also accused the Indian government of settling over 85,000 people from outside Kashmir in the region, a move it described as demographic manipulation. These claims have not been verified, and no independent source has confirmed the group’s legitimacy.
Officials are investigating whether Kashmir Resistance has any links to known militant networks or is operating independently. Its sudden emergence has raised concerns about the rise of new, decentralized extremist factions.
Longstanding Conflict Over Kashmir
Kashmir remains a deeply contested area, claimed in full by both India and Pakistan. While both countries control parts of the Himalayan region, decades of unrest have left thousands dead. The region often sees violent clashes between militants and Indian security forces, with civilians frequently caught in the crossfire.
This latest attack is expected to heighten military alertness and intensify public pressure on the Indian government to act decisively.
As investigations continue, security has been stepped up across Jammu and Kashmir. Indian officials say they are working to track down the attackers and identify the group behind the assault.
Meanwhile, rights groups have urged both India and Pakistan to avoid further escalation and protect civilians in the region.