Dr Bharti Gupta
On April 22, 2025, a devastating terrorist attack occurred in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 28 people. The assailants reportedly segregated victims based on religion, asking them to recite Islamic verses or checking for physical signs to determine their faith before opening fire. The attack led to immediate national and international condemnation. This attack stands as one of the deadliest in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks
Terrorism thrives on creating division and polarization, particularly along religious, ethnic, or ideological lines to provoke communal backlash, hoping it will lead to riots, distrust, and the alienation of communities. By targeting Hindu tourists, the attackers of the Pahalgam incident likely aimed to ignite religious hatred. However, the unified response that condemns the attack completely shattered that expectation. The people’s rejection of terrorism is not just moral-it is the logical outcome of a broader empowerment strategy that connects livelihoods, identity, and civic pride. The Pahalgam incident has surfaced the truth how far Kashmir has come-not just politically, but socially and psychologically, as a region that prefers prosperity and unity over fear.
Over the past few years, the government has positioned tourism as a key sector for Kashmir’s growth. Initiatives like “Mission Youth – Tourist Village Network,” “Home Stay Policy,” and the “Sufi Circuit” have aimed at encouraging community-based tourism, reviving local arts and crafts and promoting pilgrimage and heritage travel. The locals condemning the attack shows how deeply the people value tourism. The economic stake in peace is now personal. With tourism bringing income, dignity, and a platform for cultural pride, communities are choosing stability over conflict, and also endorsing tourism as a peace-building tool. It proves that development and dignity can undercut extremism more effectively than force alone.
Under Modi’s leadership, the vision for Kashmir has moved beyond slogans. There is now a practical roadmap – where peace, progress, and pride replace violence, alienation, and fear. Tourism, the lifeline of Kashmir’s economy, has been central to this transformative vision. Recognizing that every visitor is a messenger of peace and prosperity, the government has worked tirelessly to restore Kashmir’s image. From developing infrastructure, securing travel corridors, hosting G20, and investing in eco-tourism, to enhancing pilgrimages like Amarnath Yatra, tourism has been placed at the heart of Kashmir’s development strategy. The surge in tourist footfall over recent years has not only revived local businesses but has also opened up new avenues of employment for youth, empowering them economically and socially. While challenges remain – as seen in tragic incidents like the Pahalgam attack – the direction is clear: Kashmir’s future lies not in the shadows of conflict, but in the sunlight of development, with tourism acting as the bridge that connects Kashmir’s natural beauty to national growth and global admiration.
The anger among the masses has obvious reasons. The victims were ordinary civilians, visiting Kashmir to enjoy its beauty. When innocent tourists are targeted purely because of their identity, it is viewed as a hate-driven, communal act. The tourists carried cameras, not weapons; they sought memories, not battles – and yet they were made targets. This anger is the cry of a wounded nation. This unified response denies terrorists their psychological victory, where they bank on causing a deep societal wound. Further, it gives clear moral backing to the police, army, and intelligence agencies. They are no longer seen as representing just the State but as protectors of all citizens. This encourages community cooperation with law enforcement. When law enforcement and the people stand on the same moral ground, the fight against terrorism becomes far more effective. Also, coming together in grief and solidarity pushes politicians to avoid communal narratives that may benefit fringe elements.
The dignified, united response of Indian citizens reinforces India’s narrative that terrorism is a regional and global threat. Terrorists and their backers especially Pakistan’s deep state want to create hatred in India – because internal chaos makes India weak internationally and politically. But, if Indians across religious lines stand united – condemning the Pahalgam attack together, grieving together, and demanding justice together – it makes India much stronger to act against terrorism.
Trauma, especially from violent attacks, leaves behind emotional scars. Survivors, families of victims, and the general population often suffer from fear, anger, and mistrust. When communities grieve together, when compassion replaces suspicion, healing begins. Such acts restore faith in humanity and the social order, prevent cycles of hate and revenge that often follow trauma, lay the groundwork for post-traumatic growth, where communities emerge stronger.
This unified emotional reaction is a national resource. If sustained through civic engagement, inclusive policies, and media, it can fundamentally weaken the ideological and operational base of terrorism in India.
(The author is from Central University of Jammu)
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