Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD)The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has questioned a zipline operator in the scenic town of Pahalgam, Kashmir, as part of its ongoing investigation into the April 22 terror attack in Baisaran Valley that claimed at least 26 lives.
According to sources, the operator came under scrutiny after a video surfaced showing him shouting “Allahu Akbar” before sending a tourist down the zipline on the day of the attack. The chant, though common in many Islamic settings, raised questions in the context of the attack, prompting investigators to explore whether it was connected to the assailants’ actions.
The operator’s brother has defended him, stating that the phrase was a routine expression and denying any knowledge or involvement in the incident. “He had no idea about the attack. The phrase is commonly used, especially during activities like ziplining,” he said.
The Baisaran Valley attack, one of the deadliest in recent years, was carried out by heavily armed terrorists reportedly using M4 carbines and AK-47 rifles.
The NIA is investigating whether the zipline operator had any prior contact with the attackers or knowledge of the planned assault. Officials said the questioning is part of a broader effort to identify any local support network that may have facilitated the terrorists.
This development comes amid a renewed national security push following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s high-level meeting in New Delhi, where he gave security forces a “free hand” to deal with terrorism and expressed full faith in their capabilities.
The NIA continues to examine CCTV footage, mobile data and witness accounts to piece together the full sequence of events and identify any additional suspects. Authorities have vowed that all those involved—directly or indirectly—will be brought to justice.(DD)