NIA Joins Investigation in Pahalgam
A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrived at the Pahalgam terror attack site in Jammu & Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Wednesday, in what is being termed the deadliest attack on civilians in nearly 20 years. The visit follows the brutal killing of 26 tourists and the injury of over three dozen others at the Baisaran meadow, a popular destination often referred to as ‘Mini Switzerland’.
Led by a Deputy Inspector General (DIG)-rank officer, the NIA team is currently assisting the Jammu and Kashmir Police in collecting forensic evidence and assessing the attack site. The case is likely to be officially handed over to the NIA by the Ministry of Home Affairs soon.
Lashkar-e-Taiba Proxy Claims Responsibility
According to initial reports, the attack was orchestrated by The Resistance Front (TRF)—a proxy outfit of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). This development further escalates the geopolitical implications of the attack, which has already drawn strong responses from the central leadership.
Union Home Minister Vows Retaliation
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who arrived in Srinagar shortly after the incident, stated unequivocally that the perpetrators will not be spared. In a public statement, he asserted the government’s unwavering stance against terrorism, stating:
“Bharat will not bend to terror. The culprits of this dastardly terror attack will not be spared.”
Evacuations and Security Operations Underway
The attack occurred around 3 PM on Tuesday, when terrorists descended from the mountains in Baisaran valley and opened fire on tourists. Emergency helicopters were pressed into service to evacuate the injured. Security forces have since launched intensive search operations to hunt down those responsible.
Visuals from the region show deserted streets in the once-bustling tourist hub, indicating the extent of panic among locals and visitors alike. The 38-day Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to begin on July 3, now faces heightened security challenges.
Ex-Gratia Announced for Victims
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has announced ex-gratia compensation for the victims. Families of the deceased will receive ₹10 lakh, while those with serious injuries will get ₹2 lakh, and those with minor injuries will receive ₹1 lakh.
A statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said:
“All arrangements for the dignified transport of the victims back to their homes have been made. The injured are being provided the best medical care.”
DGCA Responds to Tourist Exodus
Following the attack, several tourists cut short their visits, leading to a spike in demand for flight tickets from Srinagar. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has urged airlines to increase flight frequency and waive cancellation/rescheduling charges to assist affected tourists.
Political and Civil Reactions
Jammu & Kashmir leaders across political lines condemned the incident. A senior government official stated:
“We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice.”
Prominent voices emphasized that such attacks aim to destabilize peace and development in the valley, especially as tourism sees a resurgence post the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
Broader Implications
This attack comes at a time when Kashmir has been witnessing record-high tourist footfall. The Pahalgam incident is not only a major security breach but also a setback to ongoing peace efforts and economic revival in the Union Territory.
As the NIA continues its investigation, the government remains on high alert to prevent further incidents ahead of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.
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