The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation of the Pahalgam terror attack, arresting two individuals for allegedly harboring Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists involved in the deadly incident. The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 people and left 16 others with grievous injuries, sending shockwaves across the nation.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar, a resident of Batkote, Pahalgam, and Bashir Ahmad Jothar, from Hill Park, also in Pahalgam. According to NIA investigations, the duo provided crucial support to the three armed terrorists who carried out the attack.
NIA investigations revealed that Parvaiz and Bashir knowingly sheltered the three armed terrorists at a seasonal "dhok" (hut) in the Hill Park area prior to the attack. They are accused of providing the terrorists with food, shelter, and logistical assistance, enabling them to execute their heinous plan.
During questioning, Parvaiz and Bashir allegedly disclosed the identities of the attackers, confirming that they were Pakistani nationals affiliated with the banned terrorist organization, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The NIA asserts that the terrorists deliberately targeted tourists based on their religious identity, making it one of the most reprehensible acts of terrorism in recent memory.
The NIA has formally arrested Parvaiz and Bashir under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This act empowers the agency to detain individuals involved in terrorist activities and disrupt the operations of terrorist organizations.
The Pahalgam attack triggered widespread condemnation and prompted a strong response from Indian security forces. In May 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation was followed by several days of military confrontation between the two nations.
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global watchdog for money laundering and terror financing, also condemned the Pahalgam attack, emphasizing that such acts cannot occur without the financial means to move funds and resources.
The arrest of Parvaiz and Bashir highlights the critical role played by local support networks in facilitating terrorist activities. By providing shelter, food, and logistical assistance, these individuals enabled the LeT terrorists to carry out their deadly attack. The NIA's investigation is ongoing, with further efforts underway to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and bring all those involved to justice.
