Police and NIA investigating Pahalgam Terror Attack

Terror Attack in Pahalgam

Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) are working around the clock in south Kashmirís Pahalgam area to trace the terrorists involved in the killing of 26 tourists in Baisaran meadow on April Tuesday.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Anantnag has been formed after the registration of FIR No 25/2025 at Police Station Pahalgam.

We have so far questioned more than 150 people, including some pony wallas, who were present in or around Baisaran that afternoon, senior Police officials said. We are collecting digital evidence and drone imagery is being secured for forensic analysis. No one is under arrest at his stage, but several persons are being examined.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi visited Pahalgam on Thursday morning, held a briefing with the SIT, and later trekked uphill to the attack site.He took stock of ongoing anti-terror operations in the area.

The terrain is rugged, but our joint teams of Army, CRPF, and J&K Police are carrying out combing operations,î another senior Police officer said, adding that the searches would continue ìtill we lay our hands on every last accomplice.î

At the same time, the NIA teams are assisting J&K Police in the investigations that will likely be handed over to the anti-terror agency for investigations at some stage.

ìNIA has lifted DNA swabs, blood‑soaked soil, and splinter fragments from the blast‑and‑bullet‑riddled Baisaran meadow,î Police officials said.

Under Section 6(5) of the NIA Act, once the Centre issues a notification citing inter‑state ramifications, the investigating officer of the local Police is required to hand over all case diaries, seized material, and custody of the accused to the NIA within 15 days.Sources said that a draft notification could be published anytime for the transfer of case.

Suspected Terror Attack on Tourists Sparks Panic in Pahalgam, Casualties Feared

Indian Army in Kathua encounter

Pahalgam, South Kashmir — A suspected terrorist attack targeted a group of tourists in the popular hill station of Pahalgam on Monday evening, creating widespread panic in the area just as the summer tourist season begins to ramp up.

Preliminary reports suggest the attackers opened fire near a well-known sightseeing spot, causing chaos among visitors. Although official confirmation is awaited, initial accounts indicate there may be casualties. Eyewitnesses described a scene of confusion and fear as tourists scrambled for safety amid the sound of gunfire.

Additional paramilitary and police forces have been deployed to secure the area. As a precautionary measure, tourist movement has been temporarily restricted while the investigation is ongoing.

So far, the identity and affiliation of the assailants remain unknown, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The incident comes at a critical time for the region, which has recently seen a notable rise in tourist activity, especially with the approach of the summer season. Local businesses had been optimistic about a strong season after a lull in past years due to the pandemic and regional unrest.

This attack, if confirmed to be terror-related, risks denting confidence in travel safety and may impact the tourism-dependent economy of the region.

Authorities are expected to release an official statement soon with further details on the attack and any confirmed injuries or fatalities.