Kashmir Tragedy: Odisha Man Among 26 Killed in Pahalgam Terror Strike

New Delhi – What was meant to be a peaceful vacation turned into a nightmare for Prashant Satpathy from Odisha’s Balasore district, who became one of the 26 victims of a terror attack at Baisaran near Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on Tuesday afternoon.

Satpathy, who had travelled to the picturesque valley with his wife and their eight-year-old son, was gunned down when terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on tourists at the scenic meadow, known for its tranquil pine forests and breathtaking views. His identity was confirmed through a helpline launched by Jammu and Kashmir Police. His wife and son fortunately survived the brutal attack.

The assault occurred around 3 pm in Baisaran, a popular picnic spot approximately 6 km from Pahalgam in Anantnag district. Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes of tourists running for cover as gunmen opened fire on unsuspecting visitors who were engaged in leisure activities such as pony rides and photography.

Officials in Balasore are now working in coordination with central and Kashmiri authorities to facilitate the return of Satpathy’s remains and offer assistance to his bereaved family.

Tourists from states including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat were also among the casualties. Several of the wounded, some critically injured, were rushed by locals on horseback before helicopters arrived for medical evacuation.

The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be linked to the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility. Joint forces have launched massive search operations in and around Pahalgam to track down the attackers.

Read Also: