Overview

• The April 22 attack in Pahalgam claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, marking the deadliest civilian-targeted assault in Kashmir since 2019.
• Indian security forces have launched a large-scale operation to dismantle terror networks linked to the attack, with ongoing efforts across Jammu and Kashmir.
• Political leaders unanimously condemned the attack but remain divided on strategies, with some advocating aggressive retaliation like reclaiming Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
• Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti warned against alienating innocent civilians during counter-terror operations.
• Congress and regional party representatives expressed support for the central government’s actions but called for a thorough investigation into security lapses.