Nepal Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack That Killed 27, Including Nepali Citizen Sudip Neupane

Kathmandu: Nepal’s top leadership, including President Ramchandra Paudel, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Foreign Minister DR. Arzu Rana Deuba, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir that left at least 27 people dead, including a confirmed Nepali citizen.

President: “Such Violence Is Highly Condemnable”

In a post on X, President Ramchandra Paudel wrote:

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of innocent lives in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Such heinous acts targeting civilians are highly condemnable and must be denounced in the strongest terms.”

He extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

PM Oli: “Nepal Stands with India Against Terrorism”

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli echoed the same sentiments:

“Deep condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Nepal stands firmly with India and strongly condemns all forms of terrorism.”

He confirmed that efforts were ongoing to verify reports of a Nepali citizen among the victims and assured that necessary support would be provided.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba Confirms Death of Nepali Citizen

On Wednesday, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba confirmed the death of Sudip Neupane, a resident of Butwal-11, Kalikanagar, Rupandehi district. Neupane was visiting Pahalgam with his mother, who was also injured in the attack.

“I am deeply saddened by the death of Sudip Neupane in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family and wish a speedy recovery to his injured mother,” she said in a statement on X.

Foreign Ministry Reaffirms Nepal’s Anti-Terror Commitment

Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued a strong statement condemning the “barbaric attack targeting innocent tourists.” It stated:

“Nepal extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wishes a speedy and full recovery to the injured. We stand in solidarity with the Government and people of India at this time of grief.”

The ministry reiterated Nepal’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, adding:

“Nepal strongly condemns all forms of terrorism and believes that such heinous acts can never be justified under any circumstances.”

Details of the Attack: One Confirmed Nepali Victim, More Under Investigation

Indian media reported that 27 people, including citizens from Nepal, UAE, and several Indian states, were killed in the attack, which occurred on Tuesday at Baisaran, a scenic area 6 kilometers from Pahalgam, popularly known as “Mini Switzerland.”

The attack reportedly targeted tourists by name, with gunmen firing at close range. Among the dead, Sudip Neupane of Nepal has been officially confirmed, while another victim with the surname Adhikari remains unverified in terms of nationality.

India on High Alert; PM Modi Cuts Saudi Visit Short

The attack is the deadliest in Jammu & Kashmir since the Pulwama attack in 2019, which killed 40 Indian soldiers. In response to the Pahalgam tragedy, India has raised the terror alert level, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, is now cutting his trip short and returning to India, according to The Hindu.