Kolkata, India: The mortal remains of two tourists from Kolkata, who fell victim to a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, were brought back to the city on Wednesday evening. Amid tearful scenes and seething anger, the families of Sameer Guha of Behala and Bitan Adhikari of Patuli received their loved ones at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport around 8 pm.
Political Leaders Unite in Grief
Senior state ministers Aroop Biswas and Firhad Hakim, Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, and BJP MP from Tamluk Agnimitra Paul were present at the airport to offer condolences and support to the bereaved families.
“This is unbearable. They killed my husband in front of our child. I’m here only because you all came. I want justice,” said a grief-stricken Sohini Adhikari, widow of Bitan Adhikari. Holding her young son, she added, “He supported you all wholeheartedly.”
Suvendu Adhikari consoled the child and assured Sohini, “This will not be tolerated. Bitan was targeted because he was a Hindu. We will not rest until justice is served.”
Terror Claims 26 Lives, Bengal Mourns
The attack in Pahalgam claimed 26 lives, including Manish Ranjan Mishra from Jhalda in Purulia. The West Bengal government has extended all possible support for the last rites and is coordinating efforts to bring back other stranded tourists.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the attack, calling it a “heinous act of terror” and urged for swift and strong action against the perpetrators. “Terrorism has no religion. We want answers and action,” she said during a cabinet meeting.
Samir Guha: A Family Man Whose Life Was Cut Short
Samir Guha, a dedicated central government employee, was visiting Kashmir with his wife and daughter for a much-anticipated holiday. A resident of Sakher Bazar in Behala, Guha was known for his kind-hearted nature and love for travel.
His wife recounted the chilling moments of the attack. “They asked for identity first… and then shot him,” she told relatives gathered outside their home. The family had been planning the trip for months. Friends recall Guha as a disciplined man who balanced work and family with grace. A frequent participant in local cultural events, he was also an active volunteer during community drives.
Guha had recently celebrated his daughter’s academic achievements and was planning a surprise for his wife’s birthday next month. The community is now left in shock, struggling to process the senseless killing.
Bitan Adhikari: A Beloved Father and Devoted Husband
Bitan Adhikari, a resident of Vaishnav Ghata in Patuli, was travelling with his wife Sohini and their young son when terrorists opened fire. A soft-spoken man known for his generosity, Bitan worked in a private firm and often spoke of Kashmir as a dream destination.
“He was our strength,” said his elder sister. “He cared for our elderly parents and was planning to build a new house.” Sohini recalled how Bitan was shielding their son when the attack occurred. “He died protecting us,” she said through tears.
Their son, too young to understand the gravity of the tragedy, clung to his mother at the airport while leaders tried to console him. Neighbours remember Bitan as someone who never missed a festival or a community event.
