Srinagar/New Delhi, India — April 22, 2026
India on Wednesday marked the first anniversary of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, with top leaders paying tribute to the victims and reaffirming the country’s firm stance against terrorism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered those who lost their lives in the April 22, 2025 attack and said the nation would never forget the innocent victims of the tragedy.
“India will never bow before terrorism,” the Prime Minister said in a message, expressing solidarity with the families of the victims and assuring that the entire nation stands with them in their grief.
🇮🇳 Nation Reaffirms Resolve Against Terror
Marking the solemn occasion, leaders across the political spectrum reiterated India’s zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh said the country’s response to terror threats is now “stronger, clearer, and more decisive than ever before.” He emphasized that any attempt to harm India’s unity or its citizens would be met with firm action.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described terrorism as “the greatest enemy of humanity” and reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to eliminate it. He stressed that the government’s zero-tolerance policy against terror and its supporters remains firmly in place.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also paid tribute, stating, “We will neither forget nor forgive,” underlining the administration’s determination to root out terrorism.
Memorial Built in Pahalgam
A memorial site has been established in Pahalgam to honor the 26 people who lost their lives in the attack. The tribute site stands as a symbol of remembrance and collective grief, where locals and visitors gather to pay respects.
The memorial commemorates the victims of the attack that took place in the scenic Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist destination, turning it into a site of national mourning.
Army Sends Strong Message, Operation Mahadev
The Indian Army reiterated its firm stance against terrorism, stating that any hostile act against India would receive a “certain and strong response.”
Under Operation Mahadev, security forces neutralized three terrorists after an extensive search operation lasting 93 days across challenging terrain. The operation involved intensive surveillance and combing of high-risk areas, dealing a significant blow to terror networks in the region.
Officials indicated that anti-terror operations are ongoing, with continued efforts to dismantle remaining networks and ensure regional security.
What Happened on April 22, 2025
The attack occurred on April 22, 2025, in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, where terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on tourists at around 2:30 PM.
A total of 26 people were killed, most of them tourists. The attackers reportedly disguised themselves in military uniforms and targeted victims after verifying their identities, according to eyewitness accounts.
The incident was one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir since the Pulwama attack, leaving a deep impact on the nation’s collective memory.
A Nation United
The anniversary has once again highlighted India’s unified stance against terrorism, with political leaders, security forces, and citizens collectively honoring the victims while reinforcing the country’s resolve to combat terror in all forms.
