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On the eve of the first anniversary of the heinous Pahalgam terror attack, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday handed over a newly constructed house to the family of Adil Shah, the lone local victim of the gruesome carnage.

Adil, a ponywallah, lost his life along with 25 tourists in a terrorist attack in the Baisaran Valley of the picturesque Pahalgam resort on April 22, 2025.

The house has been constructed by the Shiv Sena in Adil’s ancestral village, Hapatnar, in south Kashmir.

Adil’s father, Syed Haider Shah, expressed gratitude for the support extended to the family, stating that they received financial assistance during their difficult time and that the supporters remained in constant touch. He also said that the Jammu and Kashmir government provided a job to Adil’s wife along with other assistance.

However, he became emotional while speaking about his son, saying no amount of support could fill the void left by him. Recalling Adil’s courage, he said his son rose above religious divides and set an example of humanity. The family added that Adil lives on in their memories and that his sacrifice will always make them proud.

Although Maharashtra ministers Sanjay Shirsat and Yogesh Kadam were present in Hapatnar to formally hand over the house, Eknath Shinde addressed the function virtually and paid tribute to Adil’s supreme sacrifice.

Following the attack, Shinde had promised to construct a house for Adil’s family in their village near Pahalgam, a commitment that has now been fulfilled. The family has been given possession of the newly built house.

Minister of State for Social Justice Sanjay Shirsat and Minister of State for Home Affairs Yogesh Kadam were present on the occasion. Shinde also interacted with the family members through a video call. The family expressed appreciation for his support and also thanked Bajirao Chavan, an office-bearer of Yuva Sena, for regular follow-up.

In a video message, Shinde said, “In Pahalgam, terrorists singled out and killed innocent people—an act that amounted to an assault on humanity.” Yet, Adil bravely confronted them in an attempt to save tourists. Losing a son is unbearable. He is a mother’s beloved and a father’s support. The Shiv Sena will always stand with Adil’s family, as his sacrifice is truly inspiring.”

Adil’s house has been named ‘Anand Nath Sadan’ after late Shiv Sena leader Anand Dighe, who was also Shinde’s mentor.

Recalling the day of the attack, the family said Adil had told his parents that he was not feeling well and wanted to return home early, planning to take the next day off. Tragically, he was killed in the terror attack. According to family members, he was shot while attempting to snatch a firearm from the attackers. Three bullets hit his chest and one struck his throat.

Hundreds of people attended his funeral, which was also attended by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who assured the family of all possible assistance.

Adil’s father reiterated the family’s gratitude, saying, “We are very thankful to Shinde ji. After the incident, he sent his aides with financial help and promised to build a house. He has fulfilled his promise by constructing and handing it over to us.”