The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed terror outfit, has claimed responsibility for the brutal attack on tourists in the Pahalgam area of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Tuesday afternoon.
In a disturbing escalation of violence, The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed terror outfit, has claimed responsibility for the brutal attack on tourists in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, located in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, left at least one tourist dead and 12 to 13 injured, including several critically. The assault has sent shockwaves through the region just weeks ahead of the Amarnath Yatra, a period when Jammu and Kashmir typically sees a surge in tourist activity.
According to officials, terrorists opened indiscriminate fire near a popular resort area in Pahalgam, targeting unarmed tourists. Security forces and police personnel were immediately rushed to the site, and ambulances transported the injured to nearby hospitals. The area has been sealed off, and a massive search operation is currently underway to track down the perpetrators. Security checks have been intensified at all exit points to prevent their escape.
PM Modi, Amit Shah respond swiftly
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over the incident and called Union Home Minister Amit Shah, instructing him to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of civilians. PM Modi also asked Shah to visit the attack site to personally assess the situation. Following the Prime Minister’s directive, the Home Minister convened a high-level security meeting to review the broader security landscape, especially in Jammu and Kashmir.
What is The Resistance Front (TRF)?
The Resistance Front (TRF) is a relatively new yet deadly terrorist outfit that emerged in the aftermath of the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. Believed to be a proxy arm of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), TRF was formed to provide a “localised face” to the militancy in Kashmir. The group quickly consolidated militants from various organizations under its banner within six months of its formation.
In January 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) of India designated TRF as a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), citing its role in orchestrating “psychological operations” through social media and inciting violence against the Indian state.
Founded in October 2019, the group was led by Sheikh Sajjad Gul as the Supreme Commander, with Basit Ahmed Dar serving as the Chief Operational Commander. TRF was initially formed with cadres from Hizbul Mujahideen and Lashkar-e-Tayyaba, and since its formation, it has targeted a wide range of individuals, including Kashmiri Hindus, government employees, labourers, businessmen, local politicians, tourists, and policemen. The government of India has consistently stated that TRF acts as a front for Lashkar-e-Tayyaba.
TRF has targeted a wide range of individuals across religious lines, including Kashmiri Pandits, Sikhs, Hindus, and Muslims—often focusing on soft targets.
The creation of TRF is widely believed to have been orchestrated by Pakistan’s spy agency, ISI, in an attempt to divert international attention away from Lashkar-e-Tayyaba, particularly following Pakistan’s inclusion in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) “grey list” in 2018.
History of violence
TRF has gained notoriety for its consistent targeting of tourists, minority Kashmiri Pandits, and migrant workers in the Kashmir Valley. One of the group’s most brutal attacks occurred when it opened fire at a construction site in Ganderbal district, resulting in the deaths of seven people, including a Kashmiri doctor, several labourers, and a contractor.
Another significant incident involving TRF took place on April 1, 2020, when the group engaged in a four-day gun battle near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Keran sector of Kupwara. During this intense confrontation, five Indian para commandos were martyred, and five terrorists were killed. This attack further cemented TRF’s reputation for deadly and calculated violence.
Notable terrorists associated with TRF include Sajid Jatt, Sajjad Gul, and Salim Rehmani—all with links to Lashkar-e-Taiba. Intelligence agencies continue to monitor the group closely, especially amid rising concerns ahead of the Amarnath Yatra.
As investigations into the Pahalgam attack continue, political leaders and security agencies remain united in their resolve to eliminate terrorism and protect the peaceful fabric of Kashmir.
Also read: Pahalgam terror attack: We will come down heavily on the perpetrators, says Amit Shah
