A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court has issued a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed in connection with the investigation into the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, marking a significant development in one of India's most closely watched terror cases.

The warrant was issued on July 8, two days after the NIA filed a supplementary chargesheet before the Special NIA Court in Jammu, naming Saeed as an accused. The agency has charged him both in his personal capacity and as the head of the banned terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy outfit, The Resistance Front (TRF).

Court Approves NIA Request

According to the court order, the NIA informed the court that Saeed, currently believed to be residing in Pakistan's Punjab province, has deliberately evaded arrest despite being a key accused in the case.

The agency sought an open-dated non-bailable warrant, arguing that Saeed's arrest and custodial interrogation are essential for carrying out a fair and comprehensive investigation into the terror conspiracy.

Accepting the plea, the Special Judge directed that the warrant be forwarded to the Deputy Inspector General (DIG), NIA Jammu, for execution in accordance with legal procedures.

Multiple Charges Invoked

The supplementary chargesheet invokes several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

Investigators have alleged that Saeed played a significant role in planning and supporting terrorist activities linked to the Pahalgam attack through Lashkar-e-Taiba and The Resistance Front.

Attack Claimed 26 Lives

The Pahalgam terror attack, carried out on April 22 last year, claimed the lives of 26 people, most of them tourists visiting the popular destination in south Kashmir. The incident ranks among the deadliest terror attacks in the region in recent years and triggered a massive nationwide security response.

Following the attack, the NIA took over the investigation and has since filed multiple chargesheets while expanding its probe into the alleged cross-border terror network.

Hafiz Saeed's Terror Background

Hafiz Saeed has long been designated a global terrorist by both India and the United States. He is widely regarded as the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that killed more than 160 people.

India has repeatedly sought stronger international action against Saeed, accusing him of directing and supporting multiple terrorist operations targeting the country.

The latest court order is expected to strengthen India's legal case as investigators continue pursuing individuals allegedly involved in planning and executing the Pahalgam attack.

Investigation Continues

Officials have indicated that the supplementary chargesheet forms part of the broader investigation into the conspiracy behind the attack. The non-bailable warrant will remain an important legal instrument as the NIA pursues further proceedings against the accused.

The agency has maintained that the investigation is ongoing and additional evidence and legal action may follow as the probe progresses.