Supreme Court PIL on Tourist Security Post J&K Attack
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Synopsis
In response to a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, J&K, a PIL has been submitted to the Supreme Court addressing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures for tourists in remote areas. The petition highlights the vulnerability of tourists and the lack of protective protocols.
Key Takeaways
- PIL filed in Supreme Court for tourist safety.
- Recent attack raises security concerns for visitors.
- Tourists in remote areas lack protection against terrorists.
- Call for government action to enhance security.
- Comparison of VIP security measures to general public safety.
New Delhi, April 23 (NationPress) Following the devastating terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's (J&K) Pahalgam, which resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been submitted to the Supreme Court addressing the safety and security of individuals against terrorist threats while visiting tourist attractions, particularly in hilly and remote regions.
The petition highlights the absence of safety protocols and guidelines for tourists and the general public regarding self-defense during terrorist incidents, how to seek immediate assistance, and methods for concealment during attacks.
It was noted that tourists in Pahalgam were vulnerable targets for terrorists as these innocent individuals were unarmed and lacked security.
“This is the first instance of tourists being attacked in such significant numbers, resulting in casualties. This raises serious concerns regarding the safety of the nation’s visitors, particularly in hilly and valley regions like Jammu and Kashmir,” the plea stated.
It further remarked, “Recent terrorist activities have brought to light the inadequacies in protecting tourists in remote locations. Unlike urban areas, where police presence is more consistent, tourist hotspots possess unique geographical challenges that make individuals susceptible to attacks.”
The PIL emphasized the need for both the Centre and State governments to implement necessary measures to ensure sufficient security for tourists in remote hilly areas and valleys, particularly during the summer season.
“While VIPs are shielded by security round the clock, causing roadblocks for ordinary citizens, the general populace continues to endure security lapses,” it added.
The terror incident unfolded on Tuesday in the Baisaran Valley near the tourist locale of Pahalgam.
Eyewitness reports indicated that a group of heavily armed terrorists emerged from adjacent forests and unleashed gunfire on civilians, predominantly tourists.
This sudden and violent attack resulted in at least 16 fatalities, including an Intelligence officer, with many others injured.
According to news sources, two to three terrorists donned in Army fatigues attacked horse-riding tourists in the Baisran area around 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday.
Baisran is a small meadow located 3 to 4 km from the Pahalgam marketplace, where tourists typically travel on horseback due to the lack of a motorable road.
