Srinagar, Apr 22 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday condemned the terror attack near the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam in Anantnag district, assuring that the perpetrators “will not go unpunished.”

Sinha, who oversees security and law and order in the Union Territory, said that a search operation has been launched to trace the attackers.

The attack, which occurred in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, left several tourists injured and sparked widespread condemnation. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and several political leaders also denounced the attack, calling it a cowardly attempt to disrupt peace in the region.

“I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. I assure the people that those behind this despicable attack will not go unpunished. Spoke to the DGP & Security officials. Army and J&K Police teams have rushed to the area and launched search operations,” the office of the LG posted on X.

“Directed the district administration and the health officials to provide immediate medical attention to those admitted at Pahalgam. An injured tourist has been evacuated to GMC Anantnag. I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured,” he added.

Omar Abdullah said the perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt.

“I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased. I’ve spoken to my colleague @sakinaitoo & she has moved to the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured. I’ll be flying back to Srinagar immediately. #Pahalgam,” Omar posted on X.

“The death toll is still being ascertained so I don’t want to get into those details. They will be officially conveyed as the situation becomes clearer. Needless to say, this attack is much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years,” he added.

Former Chief Minister and People's Democratic Party Mehbooba Mufti said such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced.

“I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam…. Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced. Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists warmly, making this rare incident deeply concerning. A thorough investigation is needed to bring the perpetrators to justice and examine potential security lapses. Ensuring visitor safety is paramount, and steps must be taken to prevent future attacks,” she added.

The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee also strongly denounced the cowardly militant attack on tourists in Pahalgam, terming the incident as the 'most unfortunate and shameful act'.

“The incident has put a big question mark on the tall claims of central government with regard to the security situation in J&K,” the party statement said.

Senior BJP leader and Jammu & Kashmir party spokesperson Altaf Thakur said the attack was not just an act of terror against innocent visitors, but a deliberate attempt to cripple the economic backbone of the Valley.

“This is not merely an assault on tourists — it’s an assault on Kashmir’s economy,” Thakur said in a statement.

“Terrorists, frustrated by the growing peace and normalcy in the region, want to send a message of fear and instability. But their real target is the livelihood of the common Kashmiris.”

MLA Handwara and People's Conference President Sajad Lone condemned the terror attack, characterizing it as a “dastardly and cowardly” act aimed at destabilizing Kashmir's tourism industry and economy.

“For decades, we have been identified as great hosts. We have a history of hospitality. And some cowardly terrorists want to destroy it all,” Lone said, emphasizing Kashmir's long-standing tradition of welcoming visitors.

In his statement, he noted the cruelty of the timing, saying, “After years of struggle, our tourism industry was finally stirring back to life. People had begun to dream again — to rebuild. And here come these ugly villains to crush hope.”

Lone pointed to the economic motivations behind such attacks, asserting, “Make no mistake. These terror attacks are aimed at yet again disempowering us economically.”

He further portrayed those responsible for the violence as enemies of the Kashmiri people.

“Those who do this are the worst enemies of Kashmiris. They defile our history of hospitality, smearing our glorious past. And they are a curse on our present. They are enemies of our children, of our young generation,” he declared.

Calling for unity against terrorism, Lone urged, “We have to unitedly send a message that there is no tolerance for terror. Let us live our lives in peace and economic dignity.”

He concluded with a passionate plea directed at those perpetrating violence: “Please get out of our lives. These tourists are our revered guests.”

Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party President, Altaf Bukhari, said targeting innocent tourists was an act of cowardice and a worst form of terrorism.

“I am sure that our security agencies will swiftly nab the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” he added.

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