National News: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made shocking revelations in its probe into the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred on April 22 and claimed the lives of 26 people. According to the investigation, the terrorists celebrated on the spot after the massacre and fired multiple rounds into the air. As per media reports, the attack was carried out by three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, two of whom were Pakistani nationals. A local eyewitness, who was returning from Baisaran Valley shortly after the incident, saw the terrorists celebrating with aerial gunfire. This individual is now considered a key witness by the NIA.
Local Involvement Unearthed, Two Arrested
Following interrogation, the NIA arrested two local residents – Parvez Ahmed Jothar and Bashir Ahmed – who were allegedly involved in monitoring and assisting with the terrorists’ logistics before the attack. During questioning, Parvez confessed that the terrorists visited his home a day prior, shared a meal with his family, gathered information about the area, and even handed over some cash. He also admitted that the terrorists instructed them to reach Baisaran Valley the following day.
Attack Mastermind Identified: Hashim Musa Alias Suleman
The NIA has identified the mastermind of the attack as Hashim Musa, also known as Suleman, a Pakistani national and a commander in the Lashkar-e-Taiba. According to the agency, Musa has been involved in several major attacks in Kashmir, including the murder of seven laborers at the Z-Morh tunnel in Sonamarg. Notably, he is also a former commando in Pakistan’s Special Services Group (SSG).
Sketches of Suspects Released by Anantnag Police
On April 24, just two days after the attack, Anantnag police released sketches of three suspected terrorists:
- Adil Hussain Thokar (resident of Anantnag)
- Hashim Musa alias Suleman (Pakistani)
- Ali alias Talha Bhai (Pakistani)
Both Musa and Ali carry a bounty of 20 lakh each. However, it remains unclear whether the two accused arrested by the NIA identified these three individuals or named others.
Pahalgam Attack: A Targeted Religious Assault
The attack took place in Baisaran Valley, about 6 kilometers from Pahalgam, and was religiously motivated, with tourists being selectively targeted based on their identity. While 26 people were killed, 16 others sustained critical injuries.
India’s Response: Operation Sindoor
In a strong retaliatory move, the Indian government launched 'Operation Sindoor', conducting a precision air strike at 1:05 AM on the night of May 6–7 in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Key highlights of the operation include:
- 9 terrorist camps destroyed
- Over 100 terrorists killed
- 10 family members and 4 associates of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar eliminated
- 24 missiles launched, targeting hideouts based on real-time intelligence inputs
The NIA’s findings confirm that the Pahalgam attack was a pre-planned terrorist operation, executed with the support of local collaborators and direct involvement of Pakistani terror groups. With Operation Sindoor, India has sent a strong message that every act of terror will be met with swift and decisive retaliation.
