Kashmir Police Identify Suspects in Pahalgam Terror Attack
Kashmir Police have officially released the names and sketches of three suspected militants behind the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, including tourists and a Nepali national. The assault, which occurred on April 22 in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, has sent shockwaves across the nation and heightened tensions with Pakistan.
Three Militants Identified in Pahalgam Case
The suspects have been identified as Asif Fauji, also known by the alias Moosa; Suleman Shah, alias Yunus; and Abu Talha, alias Asif. Investigations reveal that two of the three men are Pakistani nationals. All three are believed to be associated with The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy outfit of the proscribed Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba.
According to authorities, a reward has been announced for any actionable information leading to their arrest. Their photographs and aliases have been circulated widely, and efforts are ongoing to track them down.
Details of the Terror Attack
The attack took place in the scenic Baisaran Valley, a well-known tourist destination. Heavily armed gunmen ambushed a group of tourists, leading to a bloodbath that left 26 dead and over 20 injured. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the attackers deliberately singled out Hindu tourists and opened fire after reportedly confirming religious identities, indicating a communal angle to the strike.
Centre’s Retaliation and Strong Measures
In response, the Indian government has launched a wide-scale crackdown on cross-border terror. Diplomatic ties have been downgraded with Pakistan. The Indus Waters Treaty has been suspended, military attaches from Pakistan have been expelled, and the Attari land transit route has been closed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a stern warning, stating, “They have made the mistake of attacking the soul of India. I want to say clearly, that those who have planned and carried out this attack will be punished beyond their imagination.”
Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions
The naming of Pakistani nationals among the accused has severely strained relations between India and Pakistan. While Pakistan denies any involvement, Indian agencies have emphasized credible intelligence linking the attackers to Pakistan-based terror networks.
The developments have further fueled demands for a comprehensive national security overhaul in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in light of growing threats from foreign-based terror outfits attempting to radicalize and infiltrate across the Line of Control.
The search for the three suspects continues as the nation grapples with grief and anger. Security has been heightened across the region, and the police have appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
