Pahalgam Terror Attack | 'Petitioner Aiming For Publicity' : Supreme Court Rejects PIL Seeking Security Measures In Hilly Tourist Areas

The Supreme Court today dismissed a public interest litigation seeking guidelines and directions for the security and safety of tourists in hilly areas prone to terrorists attacks.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh passed the order, stating,

"Petitioner is engaging in one or the other purported PILs which are primarily aimed to gain publicity, with no intent to serve public cause. Dismissed."

At the outset of the hearing, the petitioner-in-person contended that he was concerned only with the safety of tourists and Pahalgam terror attack is the first instance where tourists have been so targeted.

Displeased by the petitioner's frequent filing of "publicity-oriented" PILs, Justice Kant told him, "Last time also we advised you. Don't try to...what is your purpose and motive? Who is inciting you to file this kind of PIL? You want to become second member of this Bar who was known for these kind of PILs? You don't understand any sensitivity? You don't realize your responsibility? I think you are inviting some order with exemplary cost."

Though the petitioner averred that he was not seeking any directions against the government and was willing to withdraw if the petition was not maintainable, the PIL was eventually dismissed.

Briefly put, the PIL was filed praying for deployment of armed security in remote hilly areas of northern states, which tourists mostly visit during summer season. Invoking Article 32 jurisdiction, it was urged that the Court frame safety guidelines on how to protect and keep safe tourists during a terrorist attack.

The petition came in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack of Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists opened fire on tourists on April 22 and killed 26 persons, while several were injured.

Filed by Advocate Vishal Tiwari, the PIL stated that it is the first time that tourists have been targeted and killed in such large number.

The plea argued that the Central and State governments should take adequate steps to deploy adequate security for tourists who visit remote hilly areas and alleys specially during summer season.

Apart from the above, the petitioner also sought directions for a safe and secure Amarnath yatra, which is going to start in Jammu and Kashmir in July. It was further prayed that authorities provide proper medical facilities in tourist places, so that prompt aid can be provided to them in emergency situations.

In support of the prayers, the petitioner mentioned that globally, tourists have been targeted many times by terrorists and the United Nations Organization Counter-terrorism has issued guidelines for their protection.

Case Title: VISHAL TIWARI Versus UNION OF INDIA AND ORS., W.P.(C) No. 458/2025

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Also Read - 'Don't Try To Demoralize Security Forces': Supreme Court Refuses To Entertain PIL Seeking Judicial Probe Into Pahalgam Terror Attack