A family from Navi Mumbai narrowly escaped the tragedy because their toddler was hungry. Anna Saheb Tekale, the child’s grandfather, shared that his son and about 25 relatives and friends were on a sightseeing trip to Pahalgam. But a few kilometers from the town, the child’s hunger forced them to stop at a roadside eatery, delaying their arrival.

This delay meant they were stopped by police 3-4 kilometers before Pahalgam after the attack had begun, keeping them away from the danger zone. Tekale said he only learned about the attack in the evening and feared for his family until he finally spoke to his son, who confirmed their safety.

Authorities are still investigating the attack and have increased security across Jammu and Kashmir, closely monitoring tourist movements.