Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir – The investigation into the brutal terror attack in the scenic town of Pahalgam, which left 26 tourists dead, has taken a decisive turn. Intelligence agencies and security forces have identified five terrorists involved in the massacre, including three believed to be Pakistani nationals, raising serious concerns over cross-border infiltration and renewed militant activity in the Kashmir Valley.
Pahalgam Terror Attack: Probe Reveals Pakistan Link, Five Terrorists Involved
The attackers, affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF)—a Pakistan-backed offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Taiba—carried out the assault around 2:30 PM on April 22, ambushing tourists at Baisaran Meadows. Survivors recount chilling moments: children hiding under picnic tables, gunfire echoing through the mountains, and a heroic local pony ride operator, Syed Adil Hussain, who attempted to confront a gunman and was fatally shot.
Victims and Heroism
Among the deceased were tourists from Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi, including a Navy officer, a Dubai-based chartered accountant, and a group of schoolteachers on vacation. Emotional tributes have poured in nationwide. One victim’s wife recalled, “We were eating bhel puri when they emerged and asked if he was Muslim. Then they shot him.”
Adil Hussain’s selfless act has been hailed by political leaders and citizens alike. “He didn’t think twice. He gave his life trying to save strangers,” said Omar Abdullah, former J&K Chief Minister.
Political Fallout and National Response
The attack has triggered strong political reactions. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, visiting the injured in Anantnag hospital, vowed a “befitting reply” and pledged tighter security across the Union Territory. An all-party meeting is being held today in New Delhi to discuss the situation.
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), called it a “cowardly attack on peace.” Rahul Gandhi confirmed he spoke with Shah and J&K CM Omar Abdullah, urging swift justice for the victims.
Meanwhile, digital forensics teams have traced the attackers’ planning and communication to handlers across the Line of Control, further implicating Pakistani elements. This comes even as Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry denied involvement, calling it a “home-grown uprising” – a claim India firmly rejects.
Impact on Kashmir’s Fragile Peace
The attack has not only scarred families but also shaken Kashmir’s booming tourism industry, with over 15,000 cancellations recorded in 24 hours. Pahalgam, once buzzing with springtime visitors, is now described as a “ghost town.”
Despite the tragedy, many locals have condemned the violence and continue to support tourism. “We are Kashmiris, not terrorists,” said shopkeeper Farooq Ahmed. “We lost people too.”
Names of the Suspected Terrorists
Investigators have identified three attackers as Moosa, Yunus, and Asif, all of whom have previous links to Lashkar-e-Taiba. Two other suspects, locals who recently returned from Pakistan, are being interrogated.
In Memoriam
Authorities have released the names of the 26 victims. The Indian Navy, in a moving tribute, honored Lt. Vinay Narwal, killed while shielding civilians. His wife, married just days ago, saluted his coffin as it was flown back to Haryana.
Conclusion
As national grief and outrage mount, security forces remain on high alert across Jammu & Kashmir. The tragedy of Pahalgam has not only left a deep scar on the Valley but reignited difficult questions about militancy, intelligence failures, and the fragile line between peace and bloodshed in one of the most militarized regions in the world.