Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): Among the many heart-wrenching stories emerging from the Pahalgam terror attack, one name echoes with quiet heroism—Adil Ahmad Mir, a 32-year-old pony operator from Hapatnarh, Pahalgam,, who was shot while trying to shield tourists from gunfire.
According to eyewitnesses, Adil was guiding a group of visitors along a scenic route when the gunmen struck. As panic gripped the area and people began to flee, Adil reportedly turned back toward the tourists, urging them to take cover behind a stone outcrop. In the chaos, he used his own body as a shield.
“He could have run like everyone else,” said Ghulam Nabi, Adil’s father, his voice heavy with grief. “But he didn’t. He told the tourists to stay low and tried to cover them. That’s when he was shot—he took the bullets meant for them.”
Adil succumbed to his injuries before he could be brought to the hospital. His father said that despite the overwhelming sorrow, he finds some solace in his son’s courage. “My son died saving guests who had come to see our land. This is what we were taught—that a guest is like God. Adil lived by that.”
The local administration has acknowledged Adil’s bravery and assured support to the family. Several tourists who survived the attack have also praised his actions, calling him “a savior” in their darkest hour.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, while expressing condolences, mentioned Adil’s sacrifice in his public address: “Locals like Adil, who laid down their lives trying to protect visitors, represent the real face of Kashmir. We will never forget their courage.”
Adil’s funeral in his native village was attended by hundreds, many of whom had never met him but came to honor his sacrifice(DD)