A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Jammu has extended the custodial remand of two individuals accused of harboring Pakistani terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred in April. Special NIA Judge Sandeep Gandotra extended the remand by 45 days, exceeding the standard 90-day period. The extension was granted on September 18, allowing investigators more time to complete the probe.

The two accused, Bashir Ahmad Jothat from Baisaran, Pahalgam, and Parvaiz Ahmad from Batkote, Pahalgam, were presented before the court virtually and will remain in Amphalla Jail, Jammu. They were initially arrested on June 22, two months after the deadly attack. The NIA alleges that the duo provided shelter to three Pakistani nationals, identified as members of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), at a seasonal "dhok" (hut) in Hill Park, Pahalgam. The agency claims the terrorists stayed there before the April 22 attack on tourists at Baisaran meadow, which resulted in 26 fatalities and 16 injuries. The victims were primarily tourists.

Public Prosecutor Chandan Kumar Singh, representing the NIA, requested the extension under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), arguing that the investigation is at a crucial stage. Several key tasks are still pending, including: * Statements from key witnesses. * Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and DNA profiling reports. * Analysis of mobile data linked to Pakistani numbers. * Forensic examination of arms, ammunition, and other items recovered from a July 28 encounter in which three terrorists were killed. * DNA extraction from blankets, shawls, and bedsheets recovered at the behest of the accused, to be matched with the slain terrorists.

The court acknowledged the NIA's plea, stating that a prima facie case exists for extending the investigation and detention of the accused beyond the initial 90-day period. The court noted that witness statements and forensic reports are still pending, including DNA profiling. The NIA has also indicated that more suspects and overground workers have been identified during the ongoing investigation.

The court directed the investigating officer to expedite the probe and submit the pending forensic and witness reports as soon as possible, emphasizing the seriousness of the case and the need for a timely completion of the investigation. The NIA has re-registered the case, which involves the killing of 26 tourists and injuries to 16 others at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025. According to the agency, the accused have admitted that the attackers were Pakistani nationals linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba.