Pahalgam Terror Attack: Local Hero Syed Adil Hussain Shah Killed While Saving Tourists in Kashmir’s Deadliest Strike
In one of the deadliest terrorist attacks to shake Kashmir in recent years, at least 26 innocent lives were tragically lost when heavily armed militants opened fire on tourists in the picturesque Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam. Among the victims was a local hero, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a pony rider from Hapatnar in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, who displayed extraordinary courage in the face of terror. Hussain, the only local and the only Muslim killed in the attack, has become a symbol of bravery and sacrifice after he reportedly tried to save the tourists by confronting the terrorists and attempting to snatch one of their rifles. Tragically, it was during this act of valor that he was shot and killed by the attackers.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah personally attended Hussain’s funeral on Wednesday, paying his respects to the fallen hero and meeting with his grieving family members. Speaking to the media, the chief minister condemned the attack in the strongest possible terms, labeling it a cowardly act that targeted innocent lives. Abdullah lauded Hussain’s bravery, stating, “He died trying to save the tourists. I have also heard that he even tried to snatch the gun from one of the terrorists. That was when he was made a target and shot.”
The chief minister assured Hussain’s family of the government’s unwavering support during this time of immense loss and pain. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to standing by the family and providing all possible assistance, acknowledging the profound sacrifice made by Hussain in protecting others.
According to official reports, around five to six terrorists, wearing camouflage outfits and kurta-pyjamas, descended on the Baisaran meadow from the dense pine forests that envelop the valley. Armed with AK-47 rifles, they unleashed a brutal and indiscriminate attack on unsuspecting tourists, turning a serene holiday destination into a scene of terror and bloodshed. The Resistance Front (TRF), a known proxy of the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the heinous assault.
This devastating incident has once again highlighted the persistent threat of terrorism in the region and the immense challenges faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. However, the story of Syed Adil Hussain Shah stands out as a beacon of hope and humanity. His fearless attempt to resist the terrorists and protect the lives of others is a stark reminder of the courage and resilience that exists even in the darkest of times.
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