In a major breakthrough in the investigation into the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has confirmed that the three terrorists responsible for the killing of 26 people were Pakistani nationals affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The attack, which occurred in Baisaran Valley—popularly known as Mini Switzerland in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region—claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local pony operator. According to eyewitness accounts, the terrorists reportedly asked victims to state their religion before executing them at close range.
Two Arrested for Sheltering Terrorists Before Massacre
The NIA has arrested two local residents—Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar of Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar of Hill Park, Pahalgam—for knowingly providing shelter, food, and logistical support to the attackers before the carnage.
“Parvaiz and Bashir had knowingly harboured the three armed terrorists at a seasonal dhok (hut) at Hill Park prior to the attack,” the NIA said in its official statement. “The two men have disclosed the identities of the terrorists and confirmed they were Pakistani nationals affiliated to the proscribed outfit LeT.”
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The arrested individuals have been booked under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, which deals with punishment for harbouring terrorists. The NIA added that the investigation is ongoing to identify additional accomplices and trace the full terror network involved.
Pahalgam Attack Triggered Operation Sindoor and Border Escalation
The Pahalgam massacre, one of the deadliest terror attacks in the region in recent years, prompted a strong military response from India. Two weeks after the killings, the Indian government launched Operation Sindoor, targeting multiple terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).
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India clarified that only terrorist bases were targeted, while Pakistan retaliated with missile and drone strikes along India’s western frontier. Most incoming projectiles were neutralised by India’s air defence, although shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) led to casualties on both sides.
In the aftermath, India struck back by targeting key Pakistani military installations, including air bases, ultimately pressuring Islamabad to propose a ceasefire. However, New Delhi has issued a firm warning that any future cross-border attack will trigger an even more forceful and decisive military response.
