In a significant development in the investigation of the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people on April 22, 2025, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended two individuals accused of providing shelter and logistical assistance to the perpetrators. The two suspects, identified as Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar from Hill Park, both located in Pahalgam, have reportedly confessed to harboring the terrorists prior to the attack.
According to the NIA, Parvaiz and Bashir provided food, shelter, and other essential support to the three armed terrorists at a seasonal 'dhok' (hut) in Hill Park. The investigation revealed that the accused were fully aware of the terrorists' intentions and affiliations. During questioning, the arrested duo identified the terrorists as Pakistani nationals belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a proscribed terrorist organization.
The Pahalgam attack, which targeted tourists in the Baisaran Valley, sent shockwaves across the nation and heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. The terrorists selectively targeted individuals based on their religious identity, resulting in a massacre that has been described as one of the most heinous in the region's history. The incident prompted a strong response from India, including Operation Sindoor, a military operation targeting alleged terror camps across the border.
The arrest of Parvaiz and Bashir marks a crucial breakthrough in the investigation, providing valuable insights into the planning and execution of the attack. The NIA has charged the two men under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, and is continuing to probe the broader conspiracy surrounding the incident.
The investigation into the Pahalgam attack has been multi-faceted. The Jammu & Kashmir Police had earlier released sketches of three suspects and announced a reward of ₹20 lakh for information leading to their capture. Hundreds of former overground workers and ex-militants were interrogated. The NIA also conducted searches across multiple locations in Jammu and Kashmir as part of its ongoing investigation.
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has also taken note of the Pahalgam attack, emphasizing that such acts of terror cannot occur without financial resources and the ability to move funds. This statement underscores the global concern surrounding terror financing and the need for international cooperation to combat it.
As the investigation progresses, Indian security forces are reportedly exploring various leads regarding the whereabouts of the three identified terrorists. There are conflicting theories as to whether they have fled to Pakistan or are hiding in the Tral area, maintaining strict communication silence. The apprehension of Parvaiz and Bashir is expected to provide further leads in locating and neutralizing the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack and help prevent future incidents.
