Major Breakthrough in Pahalgam Attack, NIA Arrests Two Locals for Sheltering LeT Militants

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two people from Anantnag district for giving shelter to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who carried out the April 22 attack that killed 26 citizens. This is a major step forward in the investigation into the horrible Pahalgam massacre.

Pahalgam terror attack case | National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two men for harbouring the terrorists who had carried out the horrendous attack that killed 26 innocent tourists and grievously injured 16 others. The two men - Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote,…

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2025

Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar of Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar of Hill Park were caught on suspicion of helping three Pakistani LeT agents hide out in a seasonal hut in Hill Park, which is close to Pahalgam. Officials say that the two gave the attackers food, help, and a place to stay days before the violence in Baisaran Valley. Charges have been brought under Section 19 of the Act to Stop Unlawful Activities.

Terrorist Links and a Money Trail

Sources in the NIA said that the killers were definitely from Pakistan. The arrests showed a pattern of planning that points to a larger terror network with handlers on the other side of the line.

The attack was condemned by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which said that "it couldn't have happened without significant financial support." A new report from FATF should reveal how the massacre's funding was obtained.

India backs action and puts diplomatic pressure on Pakistan

India has strongly supported its retaliatory airstrikes, which it has called "Operation Sindoor," at the UN, criticizing Pakistan for protecting LeT agents and spreading false information. At the same time, news spread in the United States that President Trump had met with Pakistan's Army Chief, which was said to have something to do with planning the Pahalgam strike.

Courage in the middle of chaos

Among the terrible events, stories of bravery came to light. Over 11 tourists were saved by local guide Nazakat Ahmad Ali Shah, who led them to safety. Adil Hussain, his cousin, gave up his life to protect guests from the attackers.

Stricter security, the hunt goes on

Even though the NIA's arrests are a step forward, the key attackers are still on the run. To make people better prepared for emergencies, the government has stepped up its fight against terrorism and held Operation Abhyaas, which was India's biggest civil defense drill, in 244 districts.

The attackers are still being sought by police around the world. Investigations show that they trained and planned in Pakistan's Muzaffarabad and Karachi regions.