In a significant development in the investigation of the Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended two individuals for providing shelter and support to the involved Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists. The arrest of Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar and Bashir Ahmad Jothar, both residents of Pahalgam, marks a crucial step forward in unraveling the conspiracy behind the heinous crime.

The NIA's investigation revealed that Parvaiz and Bashir provided shelter, food, and logistical assistance to the three armed terrorists responsible for the attack. These terrorists, identified as Pakistani nationals affiliated with the banned LeT, were harbored in a seasonal hut (dhok) in the Hill Park area before they carried out the assault.

The Pahalgam attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, targeted tourists in the Baisaran Valley. The terrorists selectively targeted victims based on their religious identity, resulting in one of the most brutal terror strikes in the region in recent years. The incident sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, prompting a swift response from Indian security agencies.

Following the attack, the Indian government launched "Operation Sindoor," targeting terrorist hubs in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) and Pakistan. This operation underscored India's commitment to combating cross-border terrorism and bringing the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice.

The NIA's breakthrough in the case comes after extensive investigations, including questioning numerous local eyewitnesses and conducting raids at multiple locations in Kashmir. The agency's relentless efforts have yielded crucial information about the terrorists involved and the network of support they received.

Parvaiz and Bashir have been arrested under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. Their apprehension highlights the crucial role played by local support networks in enabling terrorist activities and the importance of dismantling such networks to prevent future attacks.

The investigation into the Pahalgam attack is ongoing, with the NIA focused on uncovering the broader conspiracy and identifying all individuals involved. The agency is also working to gather more evidence to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and punished to the full extent of the law.

The Pahalgam attack was initially claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy outfit of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). However, the group later retracted the claim, possibly due to pressure from Pakistan and widespread condemnation of the attack. Despite the denial, evidence suggests that TRF is essentially an LeT operation, indicating the involvement of the Pakistan-based terrorist group in the Pahalgam incident.

The attack has had a significant impact on the region, raising concerns about the security of tourists and the overall security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The government has taken steps to enhance security measures and reassure tourists, but the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region.