10 Days After Pahalgam Terror Attack, Suspects Still at Large in South Kashmir

It has been over 10 days since the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 innocent lives. Yet, the terrorists behind the attack remain untraceable, raising serious concerns over their ability to evade security forces despite an extensive manhunt.

Terrorists Still Active in South Kashmir

According to sources from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), four terrorists, including at least two Pakistani nationals and one local from South Kashmir, are still active and believed to be hiding in the region. The fourth individual had reportedly been stationed nearby to provide backup during the operation.

All four terrorists are believed to be alive and hiding in the upper reaches of South Kashmir, using the region’s dense forest cover and mountainous terrain to their advantage.

Planning and Movement Before the Attack

Investigations have revealed that the attack was meticulously planned. The terrorists were reportedly seen two days before the attack in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, as per NIA sources. During that time, they conducted reconnaissance missions at multiple sites, including the Aru and Betaab valleys. However, due to the heavy security presence at those locations, the attackers eventually chose Baisaran meadow, which is only reachable on foot or by pony—making it a more secluded and vulnerable target.

The choice of location indicates strategic planning, with the attackers deliberately targeting areas with limited access and lower security.

Terrorists Sustaining in the Forests

Reports suggest that the attackers remain hidden in the forests of Anantnag in South Kashmir, fully equipped with food supplies and essential provisions. These supplies allow them to survive without needing any external logistical support, making it even more difficult for security forces to track them down.

Jungle Warfare Training and Terrain Advantage

The terrorists are believed to be well-trained in jungle warfare, making them highly skilled in navigating and surviving in dense forest regions. The thick forest belt stretching from Kathua in Jammu to South Kashmir has given them a significant advantage.

In many parts of this terrain, visibility drops to less than 10 meters, which severely hampers surveillance and search operations.