India has achieved a significant breakthrough in the Pahalgam terror attack case. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two individuals who were actively collaborating with Pakistani terrorists involved in the brutal attack. These two local aides had provided shelter and logistical support to the Pakistani militants responsible for the massacre.
According to NIA's investigation, both arrested individuals, Parvez Ahmed Jothar, a resident of Batkot, Pahalgam, and Bashir Ahmed Jothar, a resident of Hill Park, Pahalgam, were directly involved in harboring the terrorists before the attack. They provided safe lodging, food, and essential logistical assistance to the attackers. The terrorists were given shelter in a temporary seasonal hut located in Hill Park, known locally as a "dhok," which is used for seasonal stay.
The gruesome attack carried out by the terrorists resulted in the killing of 26 tourists, while 16 others were seriously injured. The investigation further revealed that the attack was religiously targeted, as the terrorists selectively identified their victims based on religious identity, making it one of the most barbaric and ruthless terror attacks in recent years.
During the interrogation, the arrested accused disclosed the identities of the three terrorists involved in the attack. All three have been confirmed to be associated with the banned Pakistani terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba. The NIA has booked both arrested individuals under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, specifically under section 19, which deals with those aiding and abetting terror activities. The case has been registered under RC025/NIA/JMU, and the investigation continues.
This arrest holds immense significance as Pakistan has repeatedly denied any involvement in such attacks. The ongoing investigations by the NIA have not only exposed the cross-border links but also highlighted the depth of local support that the Pakistani terrorists managed to secure for executing the attack.
The arrests come amidst the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, a massive counter-terror operation where over 100 terrorists were neutralized. This operation was conducted after a series of terrorist activities escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to a four-day military confrontation between the two nations.
The two captured aides have confessed to providing comprehensive assistance to the three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, including lodging, food, and logistical planning, enabling them to execute the deadly attack. With these arrests, investigators hope to gather more information that could lead to the capture or elimination of the remaining Pakistani terrorists who are currently hiding.
The NIA’s relentless efforts are now focused on tracking down the remaining terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack. These arrests have opened new leads, and there is optimism that the remaining perpetrators will soon be brought to justice.
This major breakthrough not only exposes the cross-border terror nexus but also serves as a stern message to those who collaborate with foreign terrorists to harm India’s national security.
