People stand near the razed house of Kashmiri militant Ahsan Ul Haq Sheikh’s family house in Murran area of Pulwama district on April 26, 2025.
Introduction:
In a significant escalation of tensions, Indian authorities have detained over 1,500 individuals in Kashmir following a militant attack that resulted in 26 civilian deaths. The incident has led to widespread destruction of homes and a sharp deterioration in India-Pakistan relations.
Deadly Attack in Pahalgam
On April 22, 2025, gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists in Pahalgam, a popular destination in Indian-administered Kashmir. The attack, which left 26 people dead, is considered the deadliest assault on civilians in the region in over two decades. India has accused Pakistan-based militants of carrying out the attack, a claim that Islamabad denies.
Mass Detentions and Home Demolitions
In the aftermath, Indian authorities have detained at least 1,500 individuals across Kashmir. Additionally, several homes linked to suspected militants have been destroyed. In Pulwama district, the residences of suspected militants were demolished using explosives. Residents reported that security forces evacuated families before the demolitions took place.
India’s Diplomatic Retaliation
India has taken several diplomatic measures in response to the attack:
- Suspension of Visas: India has suspended visas for Pakistani visitors.
- Diplomatic Expulsions: Some Pakistani diplomats have been expelled from India.
- Suspension of Water Treaty: India has suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, which governs the distribution of water from the Indus River. This move has raised concerns in Pakistan, where the treaty is vital for agriculture and water supply. Reuters
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan has denied any involvement in the Pahalgam attack and has condemned the killings. The Pakistani Prime Minister has called for a “neutral, transparent probe” into the incident. In retaliation, Pakistan has suspended cross-border trade and closed its airspace to Indian aircraft. The diplomatic rift has led to heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
International Calls for Restraint
The United Nations has urged both India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further escalation. The UN spokesperson emphasized the importance of resolving issues through peaceful dialogue. However, both nations have indicated a firm stance, with India vowing to pursue the attackers “to the ends of the Earth.” Hurriyet Daily News
Economic Implications
The ongoing tensions have had economic repercussions. The Indian rupee and government bonds are expected to be influenced by the geopolitical developments stemming from the Kashmir attack. Analysts predict continued market volatility as the situation unfolds. Reuters
Conclusion
The tragic events in Pahalgam have not only resulted in significant loss of life but have also exacerbated the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan. As both nations take retaliatory actions, the international community watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation of tensions and a return to dialogue.
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