IAPSS Media Team, Department of Public Relations – May 2, 2025
On 22 April 2025, a terror attack at Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir claimed the lives of 26 civilians, predominantly Hindu tourists, and left many more injured. This tragedy has disrupted the progress toward peace seen in the region since the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019.
Amid this tragedy, acts of extraordinary courage emerged from the local community. Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a Kashmiri Muslim pony handler, lost his life while trying to shield the victims, an act of humanity that must be remembered.
The attack has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with sporadic border skirmishes reported and the Indian government suspending a landmark international treaty — the Indus Waters Treaty.
The International Association for Political Science Students (IAPSS) extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and stands in solidarity with all those affected. We unequivocally condemn all forms of violence against civilians and call upon all parties to refrain from escalation. We urge the international community and all stakeholders to commit to peaceful, inclusive, and sustained dialogue in pursuit of lasting stability in the region.
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K. S.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Livhuwani Mutheiwana, Press Officer at the International Association for Political Science Students (e: press@iapss.org).
Jorge Luis Barrera Vega, Press Officer at the International Association for Political Science Students (e: comms@iapss.org).
Esther Mabonda, Media Manager at the International Association for Political Science Students (e: media1@iapss.org).
Kritika Sharma, Media Manager at the International Association for Political Science Students (e: media2@iapss.org).
