On April 22, 2025, a brutal terrorist attack shocked the peaceful town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Four gunmen attacked a group of Indian tourists at Baisaran Valley, killing at least 26 people and injuring many others. Witnesses said the attackers forced the victims to recite Islamic verses, targeting those who could not. A group called “Kashmir Resistance” later claimed responsibility, but authorities are still investigating who was truly behind it. This heartbreaking event is being called one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, leaving the whole nation in grief and anger.

The Indian government responded strongly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack and promised swift justice. India quickly closed its land border with Pakistan, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and suspended important agreements like the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan, however, denied any involvement and called for a fair investigation. Meanwhile, reports of firing along the Line of Control raised concerns about rising tensions between the two countries. Across India, people held protests, candle marches, and prayer meetings to honor the victims. However, beneath the grief, a new worry began to spread: the fear that this tragedy was being turned into something more dangerous — a religious divide.

Soon after the attack, many media reports and political discussions started focusing on the religious identity of the victims and attackers. Stories and social media posts suggested that Hindus were specifically targeted because of their religion. As emotions ran high, this narrative spread fast, deepening the existing gap between communities. While anger against terrorism was natural, many independent voices warned that labeling the attack as purely “Hindu vs Muslim” was dangerous. Instead of staying united against terrorism, the country risked falling into a trap of religious hate and blame. The tragedy, which should have brought people together, risked pushing them even further apart.

This raises an important question: was this religious angle being pushed to distract common people from bigger issues? In recent months, India has faced several corruption scandals, rising unemployment, and economic challenges. Critics argue that focusing public anger on religious lines may help some leaders avoid tough questions about governance and accountability. Instead of asking how such a big security lapse happened, much of the public debate shifted to religion. As the country mourns the innocent lives lost at Pahalgam, it must also be careful. Terrorism should not be used to divide citizens or to hide real problems. India needs unity, better security, and honest leadership — not more hate and distraction.