Pahalgam Terror Attack: Tourist From Odisha's Balasore Among Several Killed, CM Majhi Condemns Cowardly Attack

Balasore: A tourist from Odisha is among 26 persons killed after terrorists opened fire in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam Tuesday afternoon, in what is being claimed as the deadliest attack in the valley since Pulwama terror attack in 2019. This apart, over a dozen tourists have sustained serious injuries and are under treatment.

The victim from Odisha, Prashant Satpathy, a resident of Ishani village who was working as account assistant at CIPET in Balasore, had gone on a family outing to Baisaran valley with his wife and minor son, when terrorists indiscriminately fired at the tourists. As per reports, Satpathy was fatally shot on the head while he was out on a walk on the meadows.

His wife, who was witness to this shocking incident, immediately informed their relatives over the phone. As soon as the news spread, a pall of gloom descended on his village. His family contacted the helpline issued by Anantnag police for assistance and is in touch with Odisha government.

"My mother received a call from my brother's wife at around 3 PM. In a shaky voice, she said Munna (Prashant) has been shot. I snatched the phone to talk to her. She began crying, told me my brother is no more. Immediately, we contacted the helpline number. The authorities there confirmed that he is dead. We request government to bring our family members back safely," victim Prashant's elder brother told ETV Bharat.

Another elderly woman from Odisha residing in Karnataka, Shashi Kumari (65), who was injured in the attack, is undergoing treatment at Government Medical College, Anantnag.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has strongly condemned the 'cowardly attack' on tourists in South Kashmir's Pahalgam. "Violence has no place in our society. Heartfelt condolences to those who lost their lives. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Odisha stands in solidarity with the victims and their families during this difficult time," Majhi said.

Speaking to media, state Revenue and Disaster Management minister Suresh Pujari said, "Among the 20-odd killed in the dastardly attack is one Prashant Satpathy from Odisha. We are in touch with the Central government and Jammu & Kashmir administration. We are trying to bring back the body of Satpathy and will ensure that his wife and child also return to Odisha safely."

"Such types of acts are perhaps the outcome of frustration because of pressure being built by Central government against terror fronts across the border. Home Minister Amit Shah has already reached Srinagar and is taking stock of the situation. We are also in constant touch with J&K administration," the minister stated.

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