The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has sent shockwaves across India and the world. On April 22, 2025, terrorists opened fire on tourists at Baisaran meadow, a scenic spot near Pahalgam, killing at least 26 people and injuring many more.
This was one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in Kashmir in decades, and it has left many wondering: Why did terrorists choose to strike a tourist destination rather than a military establishment?
Pahalgam: The heart of Kashmir’s tourism
Pahalgam, often called the “Switzerland of India,” is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, lush meadows, and snow-capped peaks. It attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, both domestic and international, and is crucial to the local economy. Tourism is a lifeline for the region, supporting countless businesses and livelihoods.
The attack: A calculated strike on civilians
The attack was meticulously planned. The assailants targeted Baisaran Meadow, a remote area accessible only on foot or pony, ensuring minimal security presence and maximum vulnerability for the victims. Most of those killed were Hindu tourists, with some local residents among the casualties. The Resistance Front (TRF), a group linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the assault.
Related Article:
Why target tourists instead of the military?
1. Economic disruption
By attacking tourists, militants aimed to cripple Kashmir’s tourism industry, which had been recovering strongly after years of instability and the COVID-19 pandemic. The immediate aftermath saw massive cancellations of hotel bookings and travel plans, threatening the livelihoods of thousands in the region. The attack was a direct blow to the economic progress that followed the Indian government’s efforts to integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of the country.
2. Psychological impact and media attention
Targeting civilians—especially tourists—creates widespread fear and garners extensive media coverage, both domestically and internationally. The attack was not just a physical assault but a psychological one, designed to shatter the perception of safety in Kashmir and deter future visitors. Unlike military targets, which are expected to be attacked in conflict zones, assaults on civilians resonate more deeply with the public and policymakers, amplifying the terrorists’ message.
3. Undermining government claims of normalcy
The Indian government has, in recent years, promoted Kashmir as a safe and welcoming destination. An attack on tourists directly challenges these claims, embarrassing the authorities and undermining their narrative of restored peace and normalcy in the region. The timing—during peak tourist season and amid high-profile international attention—suggests the attackers wanted to maximize political and diplomatic fallout.
4. Avoiding heavily fortified targets
Military establishments in Kashmir are heavily guarded, with robust security protocols and surveillance. Attacking such targets often results in failure or limited impact, as well as swift retaliation. In contrast, tourist spots are softer targets, offering terrorists the opportunity to inflict maximum casualties with minimal resistance.
The broader context
Since 1989, Kashmir has witnessed a persistent insurgency. While violence had decreased in recent years, this attack marks a grim escalation, signaling a shift in strategy towards targeting civilians to destabilize the region and reignite tensions
The Pahalgam attack was not just an act of violence but a calculated move to destabilize Kashmir’s economy, instill fear, and challenge the Indian government’s narrative of peace. By targeting tourists instead of military personnel, the attackers sought to inflict maximum psychological, economic, and political damage, reminding the world that, despite years of progress, the conflict in Kashmir remains unresolved.
