The Pahalgam terror strike in the Baisaran Valley, killing 26, has been linked to the chief of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and mastermind of the 26/11 strikes, Hafiz Saeed, said Indian security personnel.

The strike is one of the worst attacks ever after Article 370 was removed in 2019,leadingNew Delhi into diplomatic action by indicting Pakistan on protecting terrorist.

LeT Module behind the attack

The strike was conducted by a foreign-led LeT module assisted by local overground workers and militants operating in Kashmir. According to the sources, this particular module has been active in the Kashmir Valley for a long time.

Security agencies believe it has been behind several high-profile attacks across the region, including in Sonamarg, Boota Pathri, and Ganderbal.

Inquiries have shown the organization has direct control of operations by Hafiz Saeed and his second-in-command, Saifullah, from Pakistan, with ideological and logistical support from Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Identity of the terrorists

J&K Police have put out sketches of three suspects: Hashim Musa alias Suleman (Pakistani national), Ali Bhai alias Talha (Pakistani national), Abdul Hussain Thokar (resident of Anantnag)

A reward of Rs 20 lakh has been offered for specific information leading to their arrest. Security forces have also found a hideout connected to the module in nearby forests.

Diplomatic fallout: India's actions

India called an emergency meeting of a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the meeting they decided the reduction of diplomatic personnel in India and Pakistan from 55 to 30 and expulsion of Pakistani defense attachés from New Delhi.

They decided the Suspension of SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistanis and closing of Attari-Wagah border crossing.

Massive protests against Pakistan were held in Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, and other states, demanding justice for the victims. The attack has raised concerns over cross-border terrorism and Pakistan’s role in harboring terrorists.