June 23, 2025
What happened?
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two local residents, Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote, Pahalgam, and Bashir Ahmad Jothar of Hill Park, Pahalgam, for allegedly harbouring the terrorists responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir. A spokesperson for the NIA stated that the two men disclosed the identities of the three armed terrorists involved in the attack and confirmed they were Pakistani nationals affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT). The attack resulted in 26 fatalities and 16 injuries. The probe revealed that Parvaiz and Bashir knowingly harboured the terrorists at a seasonal hut in Hill Park before the attack, providing them with food, shelter, and logistical support. The spokesperson noted that the terrorists selectively killed tourists based on their religious identity, making it “one of the most gruesome terrorist attacks ever”. The NIA arrested the duo under section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and further investigations are ongoing. On May 7, India launched “Operation Sindoor” in retaliation, striking terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which was followed by three days of military confrontation between the two countries. Earlier this month, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) condemned the “brutal terrorist attack” in Pahalgam, noting that such attacks require “money and the means to move funds between terrorist supporters”.
Why it matters to India
The arrest of individuals for harbouring terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack is crucial for India’s counter-terrorism efforts, directly addressing the support networks that enable such acts. The identification of the terrorists as Pakistani nationals affiliated with LeT further reinforces India’s stance on cross-border terrorism and its demand for action against terror groups operating from Pakistan. This development, alongside “Operation Sindoor,” demonstrates India’s resolve to actively dismantle terror infrastructure and ensure accountability for attacks on its citizens. The FATF’s condemnation of the attack also highlights the international community’s focus on terror financing, which aligns with India’s efforts to curb the flow of funds to terrorist organizations.