“Pahalgam Terror Attack: Manhunt for Pakistani TRF Operatives Intensifies”

Pahalgam Terror Attack: Indian Forces Launch Massive Manhunt for Suspects, Including Pakistani TRF Operatives

Srinagar, April 23, 2025 – A massive manhunt is underway in Jammu and Kashmir as the Indian Army, alongside the Jammu and Kashmir Police, intensifies efforts to neutralize terrorists responsible for the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, including tourists, two foreign nationals, and an Indian Navy officer. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in the scenic Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, has been claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Security agencies have identified four key suspects, including two Pakistani nationals linked to Pakistan’s military establishment and two local Kashmiri operatives.

The identified Pakistani terrorists are Suleman Shah and Abu Talha, both described as operatives of the TRF, allegedly operating under the influence of Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir. Sources indicate that Suleman Shah and Abu Talha were among the masterminds of the meticulously planned assault. A third suspect, a local Kashmiri terrorist named Junaid Ahmed Bhat, is believed to have been killed in a prior encounter in Harwan, with his involvement confirmed through evidence found on his phone. The fourth suspect, Asif Fauji, also linked to the TRF, remains at large, with sketches released by security agencies to aid in his capture.

The attack, described as one of the deadliest in the region since the 2019 Pulwama strike, targeted tourists in the Baisaran Valley, a popular meadow known as “mini Switzerland” for its breathtaking views. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers, dressed in army fatigues, selectively targeted victims based on their religion, demanding they recite Islamic verses before opening fire at close range. The brutality of the assault, which left 26 dead, including Lieutenant Vinay Narwal of the Indian Navy and an Intelligence Bureau officer, has sparked nationwide outrage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia to address the crisis, condemned the attack, vowing that “those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the attack site in Baisaran on Wednesday, paying tributes to the victims and meeting with survivors. Shah reiterated the government’s resolve, stating, “Bharat will not bend to terror. The culprits of this dastardly act will not be spared.”

Security forces have cordoned off the area, with the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps leading a rigorous search operation across the forested and mountainous terrain of Anantnag district. Military helicopters have been deployed for evacuation and surveillance, while locals have assisted by using ponies to transport the injured from the rugged meadow to Pahalgam for medical treatment. The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced ex-gratia payments of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased, ₹2 lakh for those seriously injured, and ₹1 lakh for those with minor injuries.

Intelligence sources suggest the attack was orchestrated by LeT commander Saifullah Kasuri, a close aide of Hafiz Saeed, with support from a local sleeper cell. The TRF claimed the attack was in retaliation for what they called “demographic engineering” in Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Intercepted communications point to links between the attackers and Pakistan-based operatives in Muzaffarabad and Karachi, reinforcing suspicions of cross-border involvement.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, denied any involvement, stating, “We reject terrorism in all its forms and everywhere.” However, former Jammu and Kashmir DGP Shesh Paul Vaid likened the attack to a “Hamas-style” assault, alleging it was orchestrated by Pakistan’s Special Service Group (SSG) commandos posing as terrorists. Vaid called it a “Pulwama 2.0 moment,” urging a strong Indian response.

The attack has triggered widespread protests across Jammu and Kashmir, with schools and businesses closed in solidarity with the victims. Anti-Pakistan demonstrations erupted in Jammu, Doda, and other areas, with locals burning effigies and demanding action. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has dispatched a team to assist local police in the probe, while airlines like Air India and IndiGo have announced additional flights from Srinagar to support stranded tourists and grieving families.

As the nation mourns, the focus remains on apprehending the remaining terrorists. The Indian security establishment is reportedly deliberating a strategic response to ensure justice for the victims and to deter future attacks. The Pahalgam attack, occurring ahead of the Amarnath Yatra, has raised concerns about the safety of tourists and pilgrims, prompting calls for enhanced security measures in the region.

The Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as the manhunt continues. The government has assured that all resources are being mobilized to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace to the Valley.