Major Breakthrough: NIA Arrests Two for Pahalgam Terror Attack
NIA Takes Action Following Pahalgam Attack
Jammu: In a significant development, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended two individuals linked to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists and left 16 others severely injured.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar from Hill Park, Pahalgam, according to a statement released by the NIA on Sunday.
Both men have revealed the identities of three armed assailants involved in the attack, confirming that they are Pakistani nationals associated with the banned terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Investigations indicate that Parvaiz and Bashir knowingly sheltered the terrorists in a seasonal hut at Hill Park prior to the attack.
According to the NIA, "The suspects provided food, shelter, and logistical assistance to the terrorists, who selectively targeted tourists based on their religious identity, marking this as one of the most horrific terrorist incidents in recent history."
The NIA has charged the duo under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and is continuing its investigation into case RC-02/2025/NIA/JMU, which was registered following the attack that shocked the nation on April 22.
It is important to note that the attack, carried out by LeT terrorists backed by Pakistan, claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including 25 tourists and a local pony owner who attempted to intervene. Among the victims was a Nepalese national.
The incident sparked outrage across India, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to authorize the armed forces to respond decisively.
In retaliation, India conducted targeted strikes against terrorist infrastructure in nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Muridke, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad.
In response, Pakistan targeted civilian areas in Poonch, Rajouri, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Baramulla, launching a series of drone attacks along the western border. Subsequently, Indian forces executed precision strikes on 11 airbases in Pakistan.