NIA Names Hafiz Saeed in Pahalgam Attack Chargesheet
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday filed a supplementary chargesheet in a special court naming Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed as an accused in the 2023 Pahalgam terror attack. The attack, which occurred in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, resulted in the deaths of seven civilians and injuries to several others.
Details of the Chargesheet
The supplementary chargesheet, filed under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, accuses Saeed of conspiring and orchestrating the attack from Pakistan. According to the NIA, Saeed provided logistical support and funding to the attackers through his network. The agency also named three other accused, including two Pakistani nationals, who are currently absconding.
“The investigation has established a clear link between Hafiz Saeed and the Pahalgam attack. He was in constant touch with the operatives on the ground,” said an NIA official.
Background of the Attack
The Pahalgam attack took place on June 12, 2023, when terrorists opened fire on a tourist bus in the popular hill station. Seven people, including five women and two children, were killed. The attack was widely condemned, and the NIA took over the investigation within days.
Earlier, the NIA had filed a chargesheet against four other accused, including two local overground workers. The supplementary chargesheet brings the total number of accused to seven.
Impact and Reactions
The naming of Hafiz Saeed, a UN-designated global terrorist, is seen as a significant step in holding the perpetrators accountable. India has long sought Saeed's extradition from Pakistan for his involvement in multiple terror attacks, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
“This chargesheet is a testament to our commitment to bring all terrorists to justice, regardless of their location,” said a government spokesperson. The court has taken cognizance of the chargesheet and issued non-bailable warrants against the absconding accused.
The NIA continues to investigate the case, with efforts to trace the funding and supply chain that enabled the attack.
