Shah Rukh Khan Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Labels It an ‘Inhumane Act of Violence’

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan has joined a growing chorus of voices from across India and around the world to condemn the heinous terrorist attack that took place on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The tragic incident, which occurred at the scenic Baisaran meadow, claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, most of whom were tourists. In addition, at least 17 others were injured in the gunfire that broke the tranquility of one of the Valley’s most beloved destinations.

Taking to social media, Shah Rukh Khan penned an emotional note that echoed the collective grief of a mourning nation. “Words fail to express the sadness and anger at the treachery and inhumane act of violence that has occurred in Pahalgam,” Khan wrote. “In times like these, one can only turn to God and say a prayer for the families that suffered and express my heartfelt condolences.”

The Pahalgam attack, now considered one of the deadliest targeting civilians in Kashmir in nearly two decades, has sent shockwaves across the country and ignited a demand for justice and security reform. The terrorists reportedly opened fire around 3 PM at a group of tourists in the lush, green expanse of Baisaran, commonly referred to as ‘Mini Switzerland.’ Chaos ensued as panic spread, and local security forces rushed to the scene.

The attack has drawn outrage from all corners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to New Delhi to take charge of the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also traveled to Kashmir the next day to assess the situation and meet with the families of the victims. Both leaders have vowed swift action and justice, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism.

Other celebrities also expressed their sorrow and anger. Alia Bhatt, Akshay Kumar, Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Anushka Sharma, and Vicky Kaushal were among the many who took to social media to share heartfelt condolences and condemn the violence. Akshay Kumar, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), called it “sheer evil,” while Anushka Sharma described it as a “cold-blooded” act that “will never be forgotten.”

Khan’s words, like those of his peers, struck a chord with millions. As one of India’s most recognized and beloved cultural figures, his message highlighted not just grief, but a call for unity, humanity, and healing in the face of senseless tragedy. He did not just offer prayers—he offered a voice of resilience in an atmosphere riddled with sorrow.

The government of Jammu and Kashmir has also stepped in with immediate relief measures. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced ₹10 lakh as ex-gratia for the families of the deceased, along with ₹2 lakh for those seriously injured and ₹1 lakh for minor injuries. Arrangements are being made for the dignified transportation of mortal remains to their hometowns, and the injured are receiving top medical care in regional hospitals.

Security forces have intensified operations in the region, with additional troops deployed for combing operations in the dense forest areas surrounding Pahalgam. Surveillance has been ramped up, with drones monitoring the terrain for any movements linked to the attackers. Intelligence agencies believe the perpetrators may have infiltrated via Kishtwar and Kokernag, utilizing known forest routes that are now under full surveillance.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the banned terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the attack. Indian security officials suspect this act was carefully timed and possibly linked to recent cross-border provocations. The attack’s execution suggests a well-planned operation, prompting renewed urgency in reviewing counter-infiltration strategies.

International condemnation has also poured in. U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong both expressed condolences and condemned the act of terror. Their statements echoed the global stance that there can be no justification for violence against innocent civilians.

For many across India and the world, images from the attack site—especially the heart-wrenching photograph of a grieving young woman, still in her bridal bangles, beside her fallen husband—have become symbols of the profound human cost of terror. That young woman, Himanshi, had just married Navy officer Lt. Vinay Narwal six days earlier. They were on their honeymoon in Pahalgam, a trip that was meant to be to Switzerland but changed due to visa delays. Instead, tragedy met them in a place they believed to be peaceful.

This incident has left behind shattered families, injured survivors, and a country questioning how such violence can continue in the modern era. It also leaves behind a challenge: to unite against terrorism with renewed determination and ensure that no such attack is repeated.

As Shah Rukh Khan’s words continue to resonate, they remind us that in moments of darkness, compassion, strength, and collective resolve are our brightest lights. “Let us pray for peace, justice, and strength—for those we lost, and for those left behind,” he wrote, adding to a growing wave of voices calling for not only justice but also healing.

In the coming days, as investigations proceed and security measures are fortified, the victims of Pahalgam will not be forgotten. The nation, wounded but not defeated, stands in solidarity—ready to ensure that grief turns into strength, and that fear gives way to peace.