Kolkata man killed in Pahalgam terror attack, was holidaying with wife & kid

A Bengali tourist from Kolkata, Bitan Adhikari, was killed in one of the deadliest militant attacks in recent years in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district. Bitan, a resident of Vaishnavghata, had traveled to the picturesque Baisaran valley—often referred to as 'mini Switzerland'—with his wife Sohini Adhikari and their three-year-old son when armed terrorists stormed the area and opened indiscriminate fire on civilians.

The attack took place around 2:30 PM on Tuesday, shaking the tranquil valley as gunmen targeted tourists enjoying pony rides, snacks, and scenic views. Bitan Adhikari was hit during the initial burst of gunfire and was rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries despite efforts to save him. The condition of his wife and child remains uncertain at this time.

Eyewitnesses and video footage circulating online show victims pleading for help and others severely injured. According to multiple sources, the terrorists asked some victims about their religion before shooting—a disturbing echo of targeted violence that has further fueled outrage across the country.

Officials confirmed that 26 people have died in the attack, including two foreign nationals and at least two locals. Over 20 others were injured. It marks the worst civilian-targeted attack in the Valley since Pulwama in 2019. The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility. Sources say the attackers may have crossed over from Kishtwar and infiltrated through Kokernag to reach Baisaran.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the incident and ordered Union Home Minister Amit Shah to visit the site and personally monitor the response. Shah left for Srinagar along with top intelligence and administrative officials to ensure immediate reinforcement and accountability.

Back in Kolkata, Bitan’s family is in shock. His death has triggered widespread anger and mourning. Political leaders in West Bengal have demanded strong diplomatic and military responses, while families of those still in Kashmir anxiously await updates about their loved ones.