a nightmare when Corporal Tage Hailyang of the Indian Air Force was shot dead in a brutal terrorist attack in the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam. He had been visiting the region with his wife, who survived the attack but is deeply traumatized.
This tragic event has sent shockwaves across the country, igniting fresh concerns about the safety of tourists and the persistent threat of terrorism in the Kashmir Valley.
The Incident
The attack took place in the picturesque Baisaran valley near Pahalgam, a location known for its breathtaking landscapes and serene environment. It was around 2:50 PM when a group of four to six heavily armed militants, reportedly disguised in security forces’ uniforms, launched a sudden and unprovoked assault on a group of tourists.
Witnesses recount that the attackers emerged from the surrounding forest area, opening fire without warning. The assailants targeted specific individuals, and reports suggest that non-Muslim tourists were particularly marked during the assault. The entire episode lasted a few terrifying minutes, after which the attackers fled the scene, disappearing into the dense woods.
Who Was Corporal Tage Hailyang?
Corporal Hailyang hailed from the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh and served with dedication in the Indian Air Force. He was off-duty and enjoying a short vacation with his wife when tragedy struck. Described by his colleagues as disciplined and kind-hearted, Corporal Hailyang’s untimely death has left his family and the Air Force community in deep sorrow.
His wife, who was present during the attack, escaped with minor injuries but is currently under medical and psychological care. She is being supported by both local authorities and the Air Force welfare unit.
National Condolence and Government Response
The Prime Minister, Home Minister, and several other national leaders have condemned the act in the strongest terms. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences on social media, stating, “This cowardly attack on a brave Air Force corporal is a grave loss to the nation. We will not rest until the perpetrators are brought to justice.”
Home Minister Amit Shah has since visited the site, meeting with security officials and victims’ families. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has now taken over the investigation to trace and eliminate the terror module responsible.
The attack is believed to have been orchestrated by militants based in South Kashmir, potentially linked to Pakistan-based terrorist organizations operating in the region.
Security Concerns and Tourism Impact
This incident comes at a time when the government has been actively promoting tourism in Kashmir under the “Visit Kashmir 2025” campaign. With this brutal killing, there are renewed fears about the region’s safety, especially for visitors from other parts of the country.
Security analysts argue that this attack was not just a strike against one individual but an attempt to destabilize peace efforts and deter national integration through tourism. The Indian Air Force, which regularly participates in rescue and support operations across India, has once again become a victim of targeted violence.
Public Reaction and Calls for Action
The nation is mourning the loss of a brave Air Force member. Social media platforms are flooded with tributes for Corporal Hailyang, with hashtags like #JusticeForHailyang and #SaluteOurHeroes trending nationwide.
Citizens and veterans alike are calling for a stronger and more strategic response to such acts of terror. Many are urging the government to enhance counter-terrorism surveillance in tourist-heavy areas and provide better protection for off-duty personnel and civilians alike.
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