A Nepali tourist has died and his mother was injured in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India, on Tuesday. The news was confirmed by Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Arzu Rana Deuba. The victim has been identified as Sudip Neupane from Butwal-11, Kalikanagar, Rupandehi, who was visiting the popular hill destination with his mother when the tragic incident occurred.“I am deeply saddened by the news of the death of Nepali citizen Sudip Neupane. I pay my heartfelt tributes to him and express my deepest condolences to his family,” Minister Deuba stated in an official release.
What Happened in Pahalgam?
The attack took place on Tuesday afternoon in Pahalgam, a well-known tourist destination in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is especially popular during the warmer months with thousands of tourists visiting each year.
According to Indian media reports, armed militants opened fire on a group of visitors, causing panic and chaos. Sudip Neupane lost his life on the spot. His mother, whose name has not yet been officially released, suffered serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment in a local hospital.
Nepal’s Response
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal has strongly condemned the attack. Minister Arzu Rana Deuba said the government is in close contact with Indian authorities for further updates on the situation.“We condemn this cruel and inhuman act. The Government of Nepal stands with India and its people in this hour of grief,” she added.
The Nepali Embassy in New Delhi and the Consulate in Kolkata have also been alerted. They are working to assist the injured woman and help with the repatriation process of the deceased.
Support and Mourning
The news has shocked people across Nepal. Many citizens and political leaders have expressed their sorrow and called for better safety for tourists, especially in sensitive regions.
In India, Home Minister Amit Shah traveled to Pahalgam early Wednesday to pay his respects to the victims. He laid floral tributes at the Srinagar Airport, where the bodies of the deceased were brought.
Search Operation Underway
Following the incident, Indian security forces have launched a massive search operation to find and arrest those responsible. Streets in Pahalgam, usually filled with tourists, are now empty and guarded.
Security has been tightened across the Kashmir Valley. Local police and Indian army units are patrolling the area. Checkpoints have been set up at various locations to stop and inspect vehicles.
A Major Attack After Article 370 Abrogation
This is one of the biggest attacks in Kashmir since Article 370 was removed in August 2019. Article 370 had given special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Its removal led to tensions and an increase in security-related incidents in the region.
Despite efforts to improve the situation, violent attacks continue to happen from time to time. The latest attack is a reminder of the ongoing challenges in the region.
Tourist Safety Concerns Rise
Pahalgam and nearby areas like Gulmarg and Sonamarg attract tourists from all over India and abroad. However, incidents like this one raise serious questions about tourist safety in Kashmir.
Authorities are now reviewing their security protocols. More armed forces are expected to be deployed in tourist areas to protect visitors.
What Comes Next?
The Government of Nepal has asked for full support from Indian authorities. The process of bringing Sudip Neupane’s body back to Nepal is expected to begin soon. His mother is receiving medical attention and will be brought home once her condition improves.
Both countries are expected to continue working together on security matters, especially regarding the safety of foreign nationals in conflict-prone areas.
