Kannadigas, Tamilians and Maharashtrians among victims of Pahalgam terror attack

Siddaramaiah convened an emergency meeting with top officials, including the Chief Secretary and senior police officers. “I have also spoken to the Resident Commissioner in Delhi,” he said.

By: Express Web Desk

Updated: April 22, 2025 10:20 PM IST

3 min read

Security personnel stand guard after terrorists attacked a group of tourists at Pahalgam, in Anantnag district (PTI)

The devastating terror attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam has taken a grim turn, with confirmations that several of the 26 victims hail from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. As the nation reels from the tragedy, state governments have sprung into action to assist affected families and coordinate with Jammu and Kashmir authorities.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was among the first to confirm that Kannadigas were injured in the assault.

“Upon receiving the news, I convened an emergency meeting and reviewed the situation with the Chief Secretary and senior police officials,” he posted on X. Teams of senior officers and police personnel have been sent to J&K, along with an adventure team from the Sports Department, to provide on-ground support. “The Government of Karnataka stands firmly with those affected,” he assured.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed sorrow over the attack, which he termed a “barbaric act that shocks the conscience.” Confirming that people from Tamil Nadu were among the victims, Stalin directed the state’s Resident Commissioner in Delhi to coordinate with J&K authorities.

“All necessary assistance will be provided to the families of those affected,” he said.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also confirmed casualties from his state.

“As per the information received so far, two tourists from Maharashtra — Dilip Disale and Atul Mone — have unfortunately lost their lives,” Fadnavis said.

Two others, Manik Patel from Panvel and S. Bhalchandra Rao, were injured but are reportedly in stable condition. Fadnavis added that he had personally spoken to Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri for updates and assured continued coordination with local officials.

Also read | ‘Their evil agenda will never succeed’: PM Modi condemns militant attack in Pahalgam

The attack, which took place at Baisaran, a remote but popular tourist meadow near Pahalgam, saw militants open indiscriminate fire on visitors. At least 26 were killed and 10 others were injured in the attack.

This marks the first targeted assault on tourists in Kashmir this year, with leaders across the political spectrum condemning the incident and calling for a united front against terrorism.

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Home Minister Amit Shah has reached Srinagar and is holding a security meet with top officials over the incident.

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