A week after the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir which claimed 26 lives the perpetrators remain elusive. Security forces are combing forests and local homes, while border areas are on high alert. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is reconstructing the crime scene, analysing video footage and interrogating witnesses to track down the militants. This article dives into the latest updates, investigation progress and the impact on Kashmir’s tourism and local economy.

Details & Context

On April 22nd, 2025 a group of tourists in Pahalgam’s scenic Baisaran Valley, often called “Mini Switzerland” was ambushed by four heavily armed militants. The attack, one of the deadliest in Kashmir in over two decades, left 25 tourists and one local dead. The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. According to intelligence reports, the attackers included Adil Guru a Pakistani militant who infiltrated Kashmir years ago and Asif Sheikh, a local. Two other Pakistani operatives were also involved with three additional militants allegedly monitoring the situation.

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Seven days later, the Jammu and Kashmir Police alongside the Indian Army are conducting relentless search operations. Forests, villages and homes in the Kashmir Valley are being scoured yet the militants remain at large. The NIA has taken charge of the investigation, reconstructing the attack at the site and collecting technical evidence from video footage. Sketches of the suspects have been released but no arrests have been made. Authorities are exploring two possibilities: the militants are either hiding in the dense forests of the Kashmir Valley or have fled to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The attack has heightened tensions along the Line of Control (LoC), with Pakistan denying involvement and offering a “neutral” investigation. India has responded by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and closing the Attari-Wagah border. Over 537 Pakistani nationals have left India in the past four days.

Quotes

·      “The intentions of the terrorists are clear. The Indian government will respond with full strength,” said a protester in Srinagar, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vow to pursue the attackers “to the ends of the earth.”

·      “Kashmir is beautiful and safe… We came here anyway,” said a Croatian tourist, reflecting the resilience of some visitors despite the tragedy.

·      “We are concerned at the loss of tourists’ lives,” Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry stated, denying any role in the attack.

Additional Information

The attack has triggered a massive crackdown with security forces demolishing the homes of suspected terrorists in Pulwama, Shopian, Kupwara and Kulgam. Over 1,500 people have been detained for questioning. The Srinagar Police have filed FIRs under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and conducted searches at 26 locations to dismantle terror networks.

The investigation has revealed chilling details. The militants reportedly checked victims’ IDs, targeting specific individuals, a tactic likened to Hamas-style attacks. Intelligence sources suggest the use of advanced military weapons and external support from Pakistani handlers. A video of the attack, showing gunfire and screams, has surfaced on social media, intensifying public outrage.

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Impact Analysis

The attack has dealt a severe blow to Kashmir’s tourism industry. Srinagar’s bustling markets like Khayam Chowk are deserted with most shops shuttered due to a lack of visitors. Local businesses, heavily reliant on tourism, are struggling. “Tourists aren’t coming, so we’ve had to close,” a shopkeeper told reporters. The Jammu and Kashmir Chamber of Commerce estimates significant economic losses, with hotel bookings plummeting.

The attack has also strained India-Pakistan relations with India accusing Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and diplomatic expulsions have escalated tensions, raising fears of further conflict. Within India, Kashmiri students and residents in other states report harassment, fuelling communal tensions.

Social media platforms, particularly X are abuzz with reactions. Posts with hashtags like #PahalgamTerrorAttack and #KashmirUnderAttack are trending with users demanding justice and sharing survivor stories. Some posts highlight the bravery of locals who aided tourists during the attack while others criticize the government for security lapses.

Seven days after the Pahalgam terror attack, the hunt for the militants continues amid heightened security and diplomatic tensions. The NIA’s investigation, combined with widespread search operations, aims to bring the perpetrators to justice. However, the attack has left deep scars on Kashmir’s tourism industry and local communities. As the investigation progresses, the resilience of Kashmir’s people and the determination of security forces will be crucial in restoring peace and safety to the region.

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