NIA chargesheets 7, including LeT handler, in Pahalgam attack
What's the story
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against seven accused individuals and two terror outfits in connection with the deadly Pahalgam attack. The incident, which took place on April 22, left 26 people dead, mostly tourists. The chargesheet names Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its proxy group, The Resistance Front (TRF). It also identifies Sajid Jatt as the main handler behind the attack.
Accused profile
Sajid Jatt: Key figure in Pahalgam attack
According to India Today, Sajid Jatt, also known by several aliases such as Saifullah and Usman Habib, is a top LeT commander. He was named an 'individual terrorist' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act provisions in October 2022. Investigative agencies believe he operates from Islamabad and is responsible for recruitment and infiltration in the Kashmir Valley. His involvement extends to other major attacks like the Dhangri massacre and attacks on Indian security forces.
Legal proceedings
Chargesheet details and evidence against accused
The 1,597-page chargesheet was filed before the NIA Special Court in Jammu. It details Pakistan's conspiracy, the roles of the accused, and supporting evidence for their involvement in the attack. The chargesheet also names three Pakistani terrorists, namely, Faisal Jatt alias Suleman Shah, Habeeb Tahir alias Jibran, and Hamza Afghani, who were killed by Indian security forces in Srinagar's Dachigam in July 2025.
Legal framework
Additional suspects and charges under Indian laws
Apart from those who planned and executed the attack, the NIA has also chargesheeted Parvaiz Ahmad and Bashir Ahmad for harboring terrorists. They were arrested on June 22, 2025, and confirmed the identities of the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack. The LeT/TRF and other accused have been charged under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, Arms Act, 1959, and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The NIA invoked penal sections against them for waging war against India.