
In a brutal terror attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley, terrorists killed 26 tourists on Tuesday afternoon, including Lieutenant Vinay Narwal of the Indian Navy who had married just days ago.
The attack occurred around 2:45 PM when terrorists approached tourists and reportedly asked for their names and religion before opening fire. Among the dead were two foreign nationals. Over 20 people were injured in the assault, which Lashkar-e-Taiba has claimed responsibility for.
Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation, with helicopter surveillance deployed. This marks the deadliest attack in the region since Pulwama.
Newly-wed Navy officer among victims
Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, 28, from Karnal's Sector 7, was on leave after his wedding. Originally from Bhusli village, Narwal married Himanshi from Gurugram on April 16, with their reception held on April 19. The couple had traveled to Kashmir for their honeymoon.
The naval officer was posted in Kochi and was visiting Kashmir with his new bride when terrorists struck. What should have been a celebratory time for the family has turned into mourning.
Woman survivor raised alarm
The first alert about the attack came from a woman survivor who desperately sought help, stating her husband had been shot in the head. Security forces were immediately dispatched to Baisaran, described as a non-motorable area.
Village head of Bhusli, Rajendra Singh, said he received calls from Madhuban police station and the SP office asking about Vinay Narwal. "Police informed us that Vinay was shot dead by terrorists in Pahalgam," he said.
Residents of Karnal have demanded strict action against the perpetrators, warning that such attacks will continue if terrorists aren't dealt with firmly.
The administration initially reported one death, but the toll rose to 26 approximately four hours later, making this one of the deadliest terror attacks in the region in recent years.
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