Jammu and Kashmir: Homes of Lashkar-e-Taiba Terrorists Destroyed After Pahalgam Attack

Two houses belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists, Adil Hussain Thoker and Asif Sheikh, were destroyed in separate blasts on Thursday night in Jammu and Kashmir. This came after the terrorists were linked to the deadly attack in Pahalgam earlier this week, which resulted in multiple casualties.

According to officials, explosives had been placed inside the homes of the suspects. Thoker, from Anantnag district, is the main suspect in the brutal attack that took place earlier. Sheikh, from Pulwama, is believed to have played a significant role in planning the assault.

Earlier on Thursday, the Anantnag Police released sketches of Thoker and two Pakistani nationals, who are also thought to be involved in the attack. Authorities have offered a reward of Rs 20 lakh for any credible information leading to the arrest of these individuals. The Pakistani suspects have been identified as Hashim Musa, also known as Suleman, and Ali Bhai, also known as Talha Bhai. Both are believed to be members of the Lashkar-e-Taiba group.

The attack occurred in Baisaran, Pahalgam, a popular tourist spot known for its stunning views and lush pine forests, often referred to as “mini Switzerland.” The attack tragically killed 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national, making it one of the deadliest recent assaults on civilians in Kashmir.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the attack with a strong statement, vowing that India would find and punish everyone involved, as well as their supporters. During a public speech in Madhubani, Bihar, the Prime Minister said, “India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the earth.” He added that the nation’s spirit remains strong, and terrorism will face a firm response.

After the attack, Modi chaired a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security meeting. Following the meeting, the government announced several measures in response to Pakistan’s alleged involvement in the attack. These measures included expelling Pakistani military attaches, suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, and shutting down the Attari land-transit post. The Prime Minister made it clear that India is taking a tougher stance on terrorism, stating, “The time has come to raze whatever is left of the terror haven.”