Tensions Rise in Kashmir Following Deadly Attack
Authorities in Indian-administered Kashmir have demolished the homes of at least 10 alleged militants and detained more individuals for questioning, as investigations intensify after last week’s tragic killings of 26 people.
Indian security forces used explosives to destroy several properties since the attack on tourists near Pahalgam. At least one demolished home was reportedly linked to a named suspect. While India has accused Pakistan of supporting the militants responsible, it has not formally identified any group behind the attack. Pakistan has firmly denied the allegations.
This marks the deadliest attack on civilians in Kashmir in the past two decades. The disputed region, claimed by both India and Pakistan, has long been a flashpoint between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, who have fought two wars over it.
Since the attack, Indian and Pakistani forces have exchanged intermittent small-arms fire across the Line of Control. Speculation is growing over whether India will retaliate with military strikes, as it did after deadly incidents in 2016 and 2019.
Authorities have detained over 1,500 people for questioning, with more detentions ongoing. Although officials have not publicly commented on the demolitions, the targeted houses reportedly belonged to families of active or former militants.
Political leaders have voiced support for action against militants but raised concerns about the demolitions. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged authorities to punish the guilty without harming innocent civilians. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti similarly warned against blurring the line between terrorists and civilians. India’s Supreme Court had previously banned “bulldozer justice” — the demolition of suspects’ homes — in 2023.
In the aftermath of the attack, Kashmiri students studying across India reported being harassed and threatened.
Meanwhile, Indian police named three suspects: two Pakistani nationals and one local resident. The identity of a fourth attacker remains unknown. Survivors reported that Hindu men were specifically targeted during the shooting.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to track down and punish the perpetrators, stating they would face consequences “beyond their imagination.”
