Karnataka Families Mourn as Terror Strikes Pahalgam, 26 Killed in Deadliest Attack in Years

A deadly terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam killed 26 tourists, including two from Karnataka. Manjunath Rao and Bharat Bhushan were with their families when gunmen opened fire. Karnataka leaders have condemned the act and launched emergency response efforts to aid survivors and ensure the safe return of affected residents.

In one of the most horrific civilian attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in nearly two decades, terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists in Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam on Tuesday, killing 26 people. Among the dead were two men from Karnataka, identified as Manjunath Rao from Shivamogga and Bharat Bhushan from Mathikere, Bengaluru. Both were visiting the scenic region with their families when tragedy struck.

Manjunath Rao, a realtor, was in Kashmir to celebrate his son’s academic achievement. His wife, Pallavi, recounted the harrowing moment when her husband was gunned down as he stepped away briefly to buy snacks. She described the attackers confronting her and her son but sparing them, telling her to "go and tell Modi." Bharat Bhushan, the second victim from Karnataka, was with his wife Sujatha and their three-year-old son, who survived the attack.

The assault, which occurred around five kilometers from Pahalgam town, has sent shockwaves across the country. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his outrage, condemning the attack and swiftly organizing emergency measures. He deployed two state-level response teams and coordinated with authorities to ensure the safe return of affected families.

Tejesvi Surya, Bengaluru South MP, confirmed he had spoken with Bhushan’s widow and assured support from local administration. Meanwhile, the Karnataka government is working closely with the Resident Commissioner in New Delhi to track and assist other tourists from the state currently in the region.

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The attack not only claimed innocent lives but also rekindled fears over the safety of civilians in the conflict-prone area. National leaders have called for stringent action against those responsible and reinforced support for the grieving families.