National Desk
24 April
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist and Research Analysist
In a heartbreaking yet heroic incident, 30-year-old mule handler Syed Adil Hussain Shah lost his life during a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah personally attended his funeral and praised his extraordinary bravery in trying to save innocent tourists.
Adil Shah, who used to guide tourists on mule rides from the parking area to Baisaran, was laid to rest in his ancestral graveyard in Haptanard village, Pahalgam. Hundreds of people gathered to bid him a tearful farewell and honor his selfless sacrifice.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shared a post on ‘X’ stating, “I visited Pahalgam to offer Fatiha for Shah after his burial. He was shot while trying to snatch a weapon from a terrorist in a brave attempt to protect the tourists.” The post continued, “He died a hero. He was taking tourists on his mule when the attack occurred.”
Abdullah also met Shah’s grieving family and assured them of full support. “Adil was the sole breadwinner of the family. His bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered,” he wrote.
Shah’s younger brother, Syed Naushad, shared the emotional account of the day. He said, “Adil had gone to Pahalgam for work. When terrorists attacked the tourists on Tuesday, my brother tried to stop them.” Naushad confirmed that the terrorists shot Shah three times in the chest.
Adil Shah’s courage has touched hearts across the nation. He didn’t wear a uniform, but he acted with the spirit of a soldier—choosing to face bullets to protect others. His bravery stands as a powerful reminder that true heroes come from all walks of life.