New Delhi: A preliminary investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley has uncovered evidence of a coordinated effort between Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The assault, which claimed 26 lives, predominantly tourists, and injured over 20 others, was allegedly orchestrated under ISI directives.
The two key perpetrators of the attack, Hashmi Musa (also known as Suleman) and Ali Bhai (also known as Talha Bhai), have been identified as Pakistani nationals. Questioning of captured operatives reveals that the attackers were in regular contact with handlers based in Pakistan, who provided detailed directives on the timing, logistics, and implementation of the assault.
The NIA has gathered critical evidence, including CCTV footage from key transit points and pubic areas around Pahalgam, to track the movements of the attackers. Additionally, data from security checkpoints in nearby regions is being analyzed to identify patterns. Testimonies from dozens of eyewitnesses, including victims’ families, pony operators, and food vendors, have helped reconstruct the timeline of the attack. Witnesses reported that the assailants used body-mounted cameras, possibly to record the massacre for propaganda purposes.
Sources indicate that the terrorists arrived in Pahalgam on April 15, conducting reconnaissance at four potential targets: Baisaran Valley, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and a local amusement park. The NIA’s findings suggest that the attackers, believed to be part of a Pakistan-based LeT unit, planned the operation over several weeks. The agency is also investigating local support networks, with searches conducted in residences linked to members of banned organizations like the Hurriyat Conference and Jamaat-e-Islami across multiple districts, including Kupwara, Handwara, Anantnag, Tral, Pulwama, Sopore, Baramulla, and Bandipora.
The attack has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with India implementing diplomatic measures such as suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and expelling Pakistani nationals. The NIA’s probe continues as authorities work to identify and apprehend the perpetrators and their supporters.