Impact Felt in Himachal: Concerns Over Tourist Safety, Communal Harmony

Dharamshala: Even in Himachal Pradesh, a peaceful hill state known for its religious harmony and tourism-driven economy, the ripple effects of the Pahalgam incident are being felt. With thousands of devotees from Himachal visiting Jammu & Kashmir every year for the Amarnath Yatra and other religious pilgrimages, fear and anxiety have gripped families and communities across the state.

Tour operators and religious tour organizers based in Kangra, Mandi, and Shimla districts have reported a wave of cancellations and inquiries over safety. “After the attack, people are hesitant to join our scheduled yatras. The fear is real,” says Rajinder Verma, a Kullu-based travel agent who organizes group pilgrimages to Pahalgam and Baltal.

Moreover, the incident has reignited debates in Himachal’s political and civil society circles over the need to stay vigilant against communal polarization. Senior BJP leader and MLA Bikram Singh Thakur, speaking from Dharamshala, condemned the attack and urged for nationwide unity. “This is not just an attack on pilgrims, it’s an attack on the idea of India. Himachal has always stood as a beacon of peace and we must ensure our youth are not influenced by divisive narratives,” he said.

Social and political analysts also warn that fringe elements may use the Pahalgam attack to fan religious sentiments even in Himachal, where communities have historically lived in harmony. Security agencies are reportedly on alert, particularly in border districts like Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti.

Congress leader Rajesh Sharma has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack. Expressing his grief, Sharma stated, “I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in, which tragically killed several as being reported for now. Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced.”

S Gopal Puri