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The Pahalgam terrorist attack has sent shockwaves across India, particularly among tourists from Bengal who recently visited the region. Their experiences, filled with the warmth of the Kashmiri people and the stunning beauty of the landscape, are now juxtaposed with the horrifying reality of violence. This contrast has left them deeply saddened, not only for their own potential close call but also for the Kashmiri people who rely on tourism for their livelihoods and face the potential backlash from the incident. Ritika Kanjilal, the Chief Security Officer at Bagdogra airport, found herself able to relax and appreciate the tranquility of Kashmir during her recent visit, a stark contrast to her usual vigilance. The news of the Pahalgam attack shattered this sense of peace, replacing it with a profound sense of grief and concern. She recounts the warmth and hospitality she experienced, the vibrant markets, and the breathtaking scenery, all now tainted by the shadow of violence. The impact extends beyond personal safety, as she recognizes the potential devastation for the local economy, heavily dependent on tourism. However, amidst the tragedy, she finds hope in the resilience of the Kashmiri people, their calls for peace, and their condemnation of the attacks, reflecting a community striving to reclaim its identity and stability. Her sentiment resonates with many other Bengal tourists who share a similar sense of solidarity and hope for a future where such atrocities cease and Kashmir can once again welcome visitors with open arms. The attack serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of standing in support of communities affected by violence and unrest. The psychological impact on those who have recently experienced the region's beauty, only to witness it marred by such violence, is significant, leaving a lasting impression on their perception of Kashmir and its future.
Soma Roy, an employee of ICAR-NINFET in Kolkata, had departed Pahalgam only a day before the attack, heading towards Vaishno Devi. Her memories of the serene valley, walking by the Lidder River, sharing noon chai with strangers, and experiencing a sense of untouched beauty, are now overshadowed by the horror of the incident. The sudden shift from tranquility to violence is difficult for her to reconcile, creating a sense of unease and a deep concern for the well-being of the people she encountered during her visit. The image of the shopkeeper who offered her almonds with a smile, the little boy chasing sheep near Betaab Valley – these fleeting encounters now carry a weight of uncertainty and fear. The thought of standing in a place that would soon be filled with screams and chaos sends a chill down her spine, highlighting the stark contrast between her peaceful memories and the brutal reality of the attack. The experience underscores the unpredictable nature of violence and its profound impact on the lives of ordinary people. The sense of personal vulnerability is amplified by the knowledge that she could have easily been caught in the crossfire, further intensifying her emotional response to the tragedy. Her account serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of terrorism and the enduring impact it has on both victims and those who witness its aftermath.
Satabdi Chatterjee, a teacher from Chandannagar, has been haunted by the question of what might have happened if the attack had occurred two weeks earlier, when she spent time at Baisaran with her family. The memories of white snow and green meadows, a place she describes as paradise on earth, are now intertwined with the unsettling image of blood-soaked snow. She fondly recalls the warmth and hospitality of the Kashmiri people, who treated tourists with exceptional kindness, making her feel like she was on her honeymoon. This idyllic experience is now threatened by the intrusion of violence, leaving her struggling to reconcile the beauty she witnessed with the brutal reality of the attack. The sense of personal vulnerability is heightened by the realization that she and her family could have been directly affected by the violence, leaving a lasting psychological scar. Her account highlights the fragility of peace and the enduring impact of terrorism on the human psyche, transforming cherished memories into sources of anxiety and fear. The contrast between the positive experiences she had and the horrific events that unfolded underscores the importance of promoting peace and understanding in conflict-ridden regions.
Source: Pahalgam terrorist attack: Bengal tourists recently back from Kashmir, feel sad for its people too