NIA takes over Pahalgam terror attack case

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has officially taken over the investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives, including that of a Nepali national.

Previously handled by the J&K Police, the case was transferred to the NIA following orders from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, as stated in a press release.

Since Wednesday, April 23, a day after the attack, NIA teams have been stationed at the site, intensifying their search for evidence.

Under the supervision of an Inspector General (IG), a Deputy Inspector General (DIG), and an SP from the anti-terror agency, the teams are meticulously questioning eyewitnesses who witnessed the horrifying events at the serene Baisaran Valley.

Eyewitness accounts are being examined in detail to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to one of the most devastating terror attacks in Kashmir, according to the media release.

Investigators are closely analysing entry and exit points for clues about the terrorists' modus operandi.

Supported by forensic experts and other specialists, the teams are thoroughly combing the area for evidence to uncover the conspiracy behind this shocking attack.

On April 22, terrorists opened fire on sightseers in Baisaran meadows, a well-known tourist destination in the mountainous region of Pahalgam.

The attack claimed the lives of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. Eyewitnesses recounted the chilling moments when the terrorists approached, questioned their religion, and then opened fire at close range. Among the 26 victims, 25 were Hindu men specifically targeted for their faith.

In response, a large-scale operation has been launched in the valley to track down the perpetrators. Several suspects have been detained, and the homes of ten identified terrorists have been demolished.

(inputs from IANS)