Pahalgam attack: Investigation will reveal if support of 2 arrested persons to terrorists was by force or willingly: CM Omar
Gulmarg, Jun 24: Stating that the two persons arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for harbouring terrorists, involved in Baisaran attack on April 22, could have been forcefully asked to lend support, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that there was no “local involvement” in the recent Pahalgam terror attack, that claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a pony operator.
Speaking to mediapersons on the sidelines of the inaugural ceremony of the Gulmarg Golf Championship, Abdullah said the two individuals, who have been arrested in connection with the case, had a “limited role of providing food and shelter to the terrorists”. The attack was carried by foreign terrorists, the CM added.
“As part of the investigation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two persons who had assisted the terrorists by offering them food. The probe is ongoing, and the NIA will soon file a chargesheet. It will then be clear whether they acted under threat or willingly supported the attackers,” Omar said. The Pahalgam attack, one of the deadliest in recent times, sent shockwaves across the country, and affected the tourism sector in the Valley badly. Over the recent ceasefire between Iran and Israel after an 11-day conflict that left parts of the region devastated Omar said.“Our biggest concern during the conflict was the safety of students from Jammu and Kashmir who were studying in Iran. Many were stranded due to the closure of airspace, and their evacuation was a priority for us. Good news is that the process is nearing completion,” he said.
Speaking regarding the event at Gulmarg, CM Omar Abdullah highlighted the importance of the Gulmarg Golf Course, a key attraction in the region. He said that nine of the 18 holes are now operational, with the remaining expected to be completed within the next two months.“Gulmarg has hosted many renowned national and international golf players. By the end of this year, we plan to organize a major golf tournament here, and by next year, we aim to bring both national and international level championships to Gulmarg,” the CM said.
