Pahalgam Terror Attack: Probe Reveals Pakistani Hand, Rs 20 Lakh Reward for Information
NIA Takes Over Investigation as Security Forces Hunt 5 Suspects, Including 3 from Pakistan
New Delhi/Srinagar, April 24, 2025 – Investigations into the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran valley point to the involvement of at least five terrorists, including three Pakistani nationals, security sources revealed. Authorities have released sketches of three suspects and announced a Rs 20 lakh reward for information leading to their capture.
Key Findings from the Probe:
- Pakistani Link Confirmed: Intelligence reports indicate that three attackers were Pakistani nationals, speaking Urdu with distinct regional accents.
- Local Militant Involvement: Two Kashmiri militants, believed to be from Bijbehara and Kulgam, allegedly assisted the foreign terrorists. One suspect was previously involved in a 2024 attack on an IAF convoy.
- LeT-JeM Collaboration: Preliminary investigations suggest the attack was jointly executed by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). A top LeT commander, Saifullah Kasuri, a close aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, is under scrutiny.
- Body Cameras Used: The attackers reportedly recorded the assault, a tactic increasingly used by terror groups for propaganda.
Manhunt Underway
Security forces, including the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police, are conducting massive search operations in the Pir Panjal range, where the terrorists are believed to have fled. The NIA has taken over the probe, with a special team visiting the attack site.
Amit Shah Reviews Security
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Pahalgam, met victims, and held high-level meetings with security officials in Srinagar. He emphasized “zero tolerance for terrorism” and assured a “strong response.”
Modus Operandi: Cold-Blooded Execution
- Close-Range Killings: Most victims were shot in the head and chest, indicating a planned massacre.
- Escape Route: The terrorists vanished into dense forests connecting Hapatnar to Chandanwari, possibly moving towards Tral.
- Tourist Hub Vulnerability: Despite prior intelligence about possible attacks on railways or non-locals, the tourist-heavy Baisaran meadow was not on high alert.
Why Was the Attack Not Prevented?
- Terrorist Tactics: Operatives now move in small, gadget-free groups, avoiding detection.
- Vast Jungle Cover: The region’s dense forests provide natural hideouts, making tracking difficult.
- Tourist Influx: Overcrowding in Pahalgam made it challenging to monitor suspicious movements.
Next Steps:
- NIA to Lead Probe: The agency will analyze witness statements and forensic evidence.
- Border Vigilance Increased: Security forces are checking for infiltration routes used by the terrorists.
- Propaganda Alert: Intelligence agencies are monitoring terror groups’ social media for attack footage.
Quote from Security Official:
“These terrorists operate like shadows—no tech, no permanent hideouts. But we will hunt them down.”
#PahalgamAttack #KashmirTerror #AmitShah #NIAInvestigation #ZeroTolerance
