(Image source from: PTI)
Over a week has passed since the tragic terrorist assault in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, and sources from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) indicate that those responsible for the attack might still be operating clandestinely in South Kashmir. Individuals closely monitoring the inquiries noted that there are credible signs that more terrorists could be taking refuge in the area. It was speculated that during the ambush on April 22 in Baisaran Valley, there may have been additional gunmen positioned strategically to provide covering fire should security forces attempt a swift retaliation. Reports suggest the attackers are extremely self-sufficient, bringing along food and necessary supplies, which enable them to sustain themselves in the wooded terrain for prolonged durations without needing outside support.
Investigative bodies have collected testimonies from both survivors and witnesses, illustrating the chilling accuracy with which the assault unfolded. Tourists in the Baisaran meadow, a popular locale often dubbed 'mini Switzerland,' found themselves cornered as the attackers blocked both the entrance and exit. According to accounts, four terrorists executed the operation: two infiltrated through the main entrance, while another was positioned at the exit, with a fourth likely hiding in the adjacent pine trees to offer additional support. Three of the assailants opened fire on the unsuspecting tourists, many of whom were leisurely enjoying picnics, pony rides, or snacks from food stalls. Two of these attackers were dressed in military attire, while the third sported a traditional Kashmiri pheran. The initial gunfire erupted near the exit gate, inciting chaos. As tourists attempted to flee towards the entrance, they were suddenly confronted by the armed individuals already stationed there.
Eyewitness accounts reveal disturbing insights: the attackers allegedly tried to distinguish between women and men, as well as between Hindus and Muslims. When the crowd resisted, the assailants demanded that individuals recite the Kalma, an Islamic declaration of faith, before they began firing indiscriminately. Among the early casualties was Navy officer Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, who had just entered through the gate. The greatest concentration of fatalities occurred near the tea and bhelpuri stalls, where many tourists had congregated. Following the massacre, the terrorists reportedly escaped by scaling a wall on the left side of the park.
Further complicating matters for security personnel, sources indicated that the terrorists utilized a highly secure communication method during the attack, one that operates without a SIM card and facilitates short-range encrypted messaging. This advanced technology poses significant challenges for law enforcement agencies attempting to intercept and track communications in real time. Additional investigation revealed that the terrorists had carried out reconnaissance at three locations in the area just days before the assault on April 15. One of the suspects even scouted a local amusement park but ultimately decided against targeting it due to heightened security measures.
