The Kerala government has initiated an investigation to determine whether any Malayalis were caught in the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The authorities are working closely with Jammu and Kashmir police to identify if any Malayalis are among the victims, either dead or injured, following the attack in the popular tourist destination.

Initial reports suggest that more than 20 people have been killed and several others injured after armed militants opened fire on tourists in Baisaran, a scenic meadow near Pahalgam, on Tuesday afternoon. The attack disrupted the tranquillity of the area, as many tourists were enjoying activities such as pony rides, sightseeing, and dining at local eateries.

Among the victims are foreign nationals from Israel and Italy, as well as tourists from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.

Meanwhile, three Kerala High Court judges who were also in Kashmir at the time of the attack have been confirmed safe. The judges, Justice P.B. Suresh Kumar, Justice Anil K. Narendran, and Justice G. Girish, were in the region on official business but were not directly affected by the incident.

The attack took place in Baisaran, often referred to as "mini Switzerland" due to its picturesque landscapes. The authorities reported that militants entered the area and indiscriminately opened fire at the tourists, creating chaos. Following the assault, several people have been trapped in the area.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday left for Srinagar to take stock of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of a deadly terror attack on tourists at Pahalgam. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the terrorist assault.

The attack coincided with the visit to India of U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is on a largely personal four-day visit. The death toll remains unconfirmed, but sources suggest it could rise above 20, with many more reported injured.