Pahalgam Attack Anniversary: PM Modi Says India Won’t Bow to Terror, Army Vows Justice

India on Tuesday marked the first anniversary of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirming the nation’s unwavering stance against terrorism. The attack, which took place on April 22, 2025, in the Baisaran Valley area of Pahalgam, had claimed 26 lives and left several others injured after terrorists opened fire on tourists.

Paying tribute to the victims, PM Modi said the country stands united in grief and resolve, asserting that India will never bow to any form of terror. He emphasized that the intentions of those behind such attacks would never succeed.

On the occasion, security has been significantly tightened across major tourist destinations in Kashmir. Authorities have introduced enhanced monitoring measures, including a QR code-based verification system for pony operators, local guides, and service providers to ensure better tracking and safety for visitors.

The Indian Army also issued a strong statement, reiterating that the nation has not forgotten the attack. It emphasized that certain limits must never be crossed and assured that justice has been delivered. The Army further stated that ongoing operations, including “Operation Sindoor,” reflect India’s continued commitment to counter terrorism and safeguard its citizens.

A memorial has been constructed in Baisaran Valley to honour the victims. The monument bears the names of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident, serving as a reminder of the lives cut short and the resilience of the nation.

Across the country, families and communities remembered the victims, many of whom were ordinary citizens visiting Kashmir with their loved ones. Among them was Vinay Narwal, a young Navy officer from Haryana who had been married just days before the attack. Bitan Adhikari, a software engineer based in the United States, was killed in front of his family. Shubham Dwivedi from Kanpur and Santosh Jagdale, an interior designer from Pune, also lost their lives, leaving behind grieving families and lasting memories.

The anniversary has not only revived memories of the tragedy but also reinforced the nation’s resolve to fight terrorism with unity and determination. With tightened security and continued vigilance, authorities aim to ensure that such incidents are not repeated, while honouring the sacrifices of those who lost their lives.