The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday achieved a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack by filing a supplementary chargesheet that identifies Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed as the alleged mastermind behind the April 22 attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians.
The supplementary chargesheet was submitted before the Special NIA Court in Jammu. The agency has named Hafiz Saeed both in his personal capacity and as the founder and chief of the banned terrorist organisation LeT and its proxy outfit, The Resistance Front (TRF).
The April 22 attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley left 26 people dead after terrorists opened fire on tourists. Those killed included 25 tourists and a local guide.
According to the NIA, its investigation has found that the conspiracy behind the attack was planned and directed from Pakistan. The agency alleged that Saeed supervised the operation, instructed the terrorists and monitored the execution of the attack from across the border.
He has been charged under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. The charges include criminal conspiracy and waging war against India.
The supplementary chargesheet expands upon the original 1,597-page chargesheet and lays out details of Pakistan's alleged involvement, Saeed's purported role, and the scientific, forensic and technical evidence gathered during the investigation.
Earlier, on 15 December 2025, the NIA had filed its first chargesheet in the case, naming Pakistan-based handler Sajid Jatt. It also identified three terrorists killed during 'Operation Mahadev' in July 2025, two arrested accused, and the banned organisations LeT and TRF for allegedly conspiring to carry out and execute the attack.
On 22 April 2025, terrorists opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam, allegedly targeting victims on the basis of religion. The attack killed 25 tourists and one local civilian. Shortly afterwards, FIR No. 25/2025 was registered at Pahalgam Police Station before the investigation was transferred to the NIA on the directions of the Union Home Ministry.
The agency said its investigation remains underway as it seeks to dismantle the Pakistan-based terror network linked to the attack and identify all those involved, including handlers and other operatives.
