In the wake of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir on April 22nd, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, mostly tourists, Indian security forces have launched an extensive hunt for the perpetrators. The attack, which has been widely condemned, has triggered outrage and grief across India, with many calling for decisive action against those responsible.
The Indian government has pointed fingers at Pakistan, accusing it of funding and encouraging terrorism in Kashmir. While Islamabad denies any involvement, Indian officials have stated that the attack had "cross-border linkages," with Kashmiri police identifying three suspects, two of whom are allegedly Pakistani nationals.
In response to the attack, the Indian government has taken several steps, including downgrading diplomatic ties with Pakistan and suspending its participation in the Indus Waters Treaty. These actions have further strained relations between the two countries, with Pakistan condemning the measures and calling for an independent investigation into the attack.
On the ground, security forces have been conducting extensive search operations in the Kashmir Valley, targeting suspected militants and their support networks. Armed police and soldiers have been searching homes and forests, while authorities have also demolished the houses of suspected militants. According to sources, more than 200 overground workers (OGWs) have been detained for questioning to trace the events leading up to the attack.
The investigation into the Pahalgam attack has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which has begun collecting evidence and questioning witnesses. The NIA teams are also scrutinizing entry and exit points for clues about the terrorists' modus operandi. Forensic analysis has confirmed that the terrorists were armed with AK-47 and M4 assault rifles.
Amid the ongoing hunt for the attackers, tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) have also escalated, with reports of ceasefire violations by the Pakistan Army. This has raised fears of a broader military confrontation between the two countries.
The Pahalgam attack has not only resulted in a security crisis but has also dealt a blow to the tourism sector in Kashmir. The attack has instilled fear among tourists, leading to a decline in tourist arrivals. However, some tourists have defied the fear and continued to visit the valley, expressing their admiration for Kashmir's beauty and its people.
As the hunt for the suspects continues, the Indian government has vowed to bring the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asserted that the terrorists and conspirators behind the killings will be served the harshest punishment. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are meticulously piecing together evidence to ensure that all those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
