Why in News?

Twenty-eight people, mostly tourists, were killed in a terrorist attack in Baisaran Valley, a scenic spot in Pahalgam, Anantnag district of J&K.

This is the deadliest since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The remote, high-altitude area—accessible only by foot or horseback—posed challenges for rescue efforts.

The Resistance Front, an ISI-backed proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the assault.

What’s in Today’s Article?

• About Pahalgam
• Baisaran: A Scenic Gem Near Pahalgam
• The Resistance Front (TRF)
• Pahalgam Terror Attack - Analysis

About Pahalgam

• Pahalgam is a popular hill station located in the Anantnag district in the southern part of the Kashmir Valley, Jammu and Kashmir.
• It lies approximately 90 km from Srinagar International Airport.
• Tourist Attractions
  • Known as the ‘Valley of Shepherds’, Pahalgam offers lush mountain trails, dense forests, and the scenic Lidder River.
  • Key attractions include:
    • Amarnath Cave Temple: A revered Hindu shrine.
    • Aru Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to species like brown bears and musk deer.
    • Betaab Valley: Named after the Sunny Deol-starrer film Betaab.
    • Tulian Lake: A serene alpine lake popular with trekkers.
    • Baisaran Valley: A picturesque meadow drawing many tourists, often called “mini-Switzerland.”

Baisaran: A Scenic Gem Near Pahalgam

• Located just 5 km from Pahalgam, Baisaran is one of the region’s most popular tourist and trekking destinations.
• Accessible only by foot or ponies, the lack of motorable roads made rescue operations difficult during the recent terrorist attack.
• Mini Switzerland of Kashmir
  • Baisaran is often referred to as ‘Mini Switzerland’ due to its long, dark meadows and striking resemblance to European landscapes.
  • The Pahalgam Development Authority highlights its eye-catching beauty, dense pine forests, and snow-capped mountain backdrop.
• Ideal for Trekkers and Campers
  • The meadow serves as a key campsite for trekkers heading to Tulian Lake, which offers breathtaking views of Pahalgam and the Lidder Valley.
• A Year-Round Tourist Destination
  • Baisaran’s picturesque scenery, including views of the Lidder River, attracts visitors in both summer and winter.

The Resistance Front (TRF)

• TRF is a militant group that emerged as an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) shortly after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.
• It quickly evolved into an active terror outfit, absorbing militants from various factions, particularly LeT.
• Designation as a Terrorist Organisation
  • In January 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs declared TRF a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
  • The ministry cited its involvement in psychological operations on social media to radicalize and incite the people of Jammu and Kashmir against the Indian state.
• Activities and Targets
  • Since its formation, TRF has been responsible for several terror attacks in the Kashmir Valley, specifically targeting tourists, minority Kashmiri Pandits, and migrant labourers.

Pahalgam Terror Attack – Analysis

• The terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which killed over two dozen civilians, is the deadliest targeting civilians since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
• It highlights a major internal security challenge with significant external implications for India.
• Tourism as a Symbol of Normalcy Disrupted
  • Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, a surge in tourism to Jammu & Kashmir was viewed as a sign of peace and prosperity.
  • The attack shatters this image and revives the Valley’s painful memories of violence.
• Terror Timing and Global Attention
  • The attack occurred while US Vice-President JD Vance was visiting India and PM Modi was on a diplomatic trip to Saudi Arabia, a timing that echoes previous incidents aimed at international publicity.
    • March 2000: 36 Sikhs were massacred in Anantnag just before President Clinton’s visit.
    • May 2002: The Kaluchak attack coincided with US official Christina Rocca’s visit, killing 23 people including women and children.
• Kashmir and Pakistan’s Provocative Rhetoric
  • The attack followed a provocative statement by Pakistan Army chief Gen. Asim Munir, who called Kashmir Pakistan’s "jugular vein."