Terrorist in police uniform opens fire after asking victim’s name, targets Hindu tourists in Pahalgam

Srinagar: Terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists in Baisaran valley near Pahalgam on Monday, injuring at least eight people, including one man who was shot in the head, police said.

Officials said the attack took place in Baisaran valley, a popular tourist spot accessible only by foot or mule. A group of tourists had gone there for a morning walk when the attack occurred.

According to eyewitnesses, the assailants — believed to be two to three in number and dressed in police uniforms — opened fire at close range. “My husband was shot in the head while seven other people were also injured in the attack,” a woman present at the scene told a news agency over the phone.

A helicopter has been deployed to evacuate the injured. Some victims were brought down by locals using mules, officials said. A doctor at the Pahalgam hospital confirmed that the injured tourists were being shifted there for treatment.

A senior police officer said security forces rushed to the valley after hearing gunshots. The area has been cordoned off, and a search operation is underway.

The attack targeted an area heavily reliant on tourism, particularly during the summer months when large numbers of visitors arrive.