As the nation reels from the horrific Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, stories of survival are emerging alongside the overwhelming grief. Among these is the remarkable escape of the Sheikh family from Uruli, Pune, whose lives were saved thanks to their driver’s quick thinking and vigilance at the height of the attack.
On April 22, 2025, as terrorists from The Resistance Front (TRF) unleashed indiscriminate gunfire on tourists at the scenic Baisaran meadow, panic and chaos swept through the valley. The attackers, armed and disguised in clothing similar to local police, targeted civilians based on identity, leaving at least 26 dead and dozens injured.
The Sheikh family, vacationing in Kashmir, found themselves dangerously close to the unfolding violence. According to family members, as soon as their driver received word of the gunfire and realized the gravity of the situation, he acted decisively. He immediately warned the family, “Don’t step forward, there’s a terrorist attack ahead,” and quickly maneuvered the vehicle to a safe location, away from the main site of the assault. This crucial moment of alertness and presence of mind ensured that the Sheikh family was not caught in the crossfire that claimed so many innocent lives.
Such accounts of survival highlight the unpredictable and terrifying nature of the attack, which turned “heaven on earth” into a scene of horror for hundreds of families. While many were tragically caught in the mayhem, others, like the Sheikhs, owe their safety to the split-second decisions of those around them. Their story is a testament to the importance of vigilance and the critical role that local guides and drivers play in protecting tourists during emergencies.
In the aftermath, security forces and local authorities have intensified rescue and evacuation efforts, with state governments across India coordinating to bring stranded tourists home safely. The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced compensation for victims’ families and is providing medical care for the injured, while leaders nationwide have condemned the barbaric act and vowed justice.
As survivors return home and recount their ordeals, the nation is reminded of the courage and resilience that can emerge even in moments of terror. The Sheikh family’s escape stands as a beacon of hope and a powerful example of how alertness and quick action can make the difference between life and death.