PM Modi returns to Delhi, cuts short Saudi visit over Pahalgam terror attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Delhi on Wednesday morning, having cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia following a terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 people.

The prime minister travelled on a two-day trip to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday and was due to return on Wednesday night.

According to reports, citing government sources, PM Modi skipped the official dinner hosted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and was expected to leave for India shortly.

PM Modi was originally scheduled to return back on Wednesday.

Terrorists opened fire at a popular meadow near Pahalgam, Kashmir, often referred to as “mini Switzerland,” targeting tourists who were enjoying meals, pony rides, or picnicking, according to officials and eyewitnesses.

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As news of the attack emerged, Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately called Home Minister Amit Shah, urging him to visit the Union Territory.

Amit Shah arrived in Srinagar just after 9 pm and went directly to the Raj Bhavan from the airport.

Upon his arrival, Jammu and Kashmir Police Director General Nalin Prabhat briefed the Home Minister about the attack.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, and Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka were also present during the briefing.

With inputs from agencies