Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir – April 22, 2025, In the wake of a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed at least 28 tourists, a writ petition has been filed before the Supreme Court of India. The petition calls for immediate intervention to ensure better safety and security for tourists, especially in hilly and remote areas that see heavy footfall during the summer season.
Concerns Raised in the Petition
Filed as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by Advocate Vishal Tiwari, the plea outlines serious concerns regarding the lack of security readiness, public awareness, and infrastructure in areas vulnerable to terror attacks. The petition underscores the urgent requirement for a nationwide safety strategy, including awareness initiatives and emergency protocols designed to protect unarmed civilians.
Referring to the April 22 Pahalgam incident—roughly 90 kilometers from Srinagar—the petition highlights the grave risk posed to tourists due to the absence of security personnel in such regions.
“Recent terrorist attack on Tuesday in Pahalgaon, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorist targeted the tourists and opened fire and killed around 28 persons and several injured. The attack targeted tourists in Pahalgam, which lies about 90 kilometers (55 miles) by road from the key city of Srinagar. The terrorists targeted the tourists who were enjoying on a place in Pahalgaon by sitting and eating. And it was an easy target for the terrorists, as the innocent people unarmed and without any security, were found, and than terrorists attacked them and started killing. The government and security forces will bring justice,” the PIL states.
Disparity in Security Measures
The plea criticizes the unequal distribution of security resources, noting that VIPs and public officials often receive heavy protection, while ordinary citizens, including tourists, are left exposed in high-risk regions.
It stresses that this is among the first large-scale terror incidents in India where tourists have been the primary targets, highlighting the critical need for government-level planning and policy execution to prevent similar attacks.
“It is for the first time that the tourists have been targeted and in such large number they have been killed and injured. Now it has raised the question of Safety and security of the people of the country who visit as tourists, mostly in hilly areas and Valley like Jammu and Kashmir. Globally tourists have been targeted through out the world many times by the terrorist and the United Nations Organization Counter-Terrorism has issued guidelines for the Protection of the tourists,” the PIL reads.
Tourism and Strategic Vulnerabilities
The petitioner notes that with the summer vacation period approaching, destinations like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh will experience a sharp rise in tourist numbers. Religious events such as the Amarnath Yatra further increase travel to these regions.
The PIL points out that many of these scenic locations—especially remote valleys and snow-covered areas—remain vulnerable due to limited security deployment.
“Remote valleys and snow-laden terrains—though beautiful—are soft targets due to sparse security presence,” the petition states.
Importance of Balanced Tourism and Safety
Tourism, the petition emphasizes, plays a vital role in the regional economy. Therefore, a balance must be struck between encouraging travel and ensuring robust security for all.
“Recent terrorist attacks have raised question of security of tourists visiting such remote places. In urban areas it is difficult to attack, as there is regular movement of police, forces but tourist destinations are geographically different, where people can be targeted easily. The central and state governments have to take adequate steps to deploy adequate security for the tourists who Visit Such remote hilly areas and alleys, especially during the summer season,” the plea reads.
Prayers in the Petition
The PIL seeks the following directions from the Supreme Court:
- Mandamus to the Union Home Ministry and State Governments
To implement safety measures and deploy armed security in remote and sensitive tourist areas, especially in hilly regions frequently visited in summer. - Specific Security for the Amarnath Yatra
To ensure arrangements are made for the safe and secure conduct of the upcoming pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir. - Improved Medical Facilities
To provide adequate emergency medical services in remote tourist zones so that prompt aid is available in the event of an attack or natural disaster. - Tourist Awareness Guidelines
To develop and circulate general safety protocols and awareness programs for tourists, focusing on self-protection during emergencies or terrorist attacks.
Case Title:
Vishal Tiwari v. Union of India & Ors.
