Pahalgam Carnage: NIA Team Questions Odisha Victim’s Family in Baleswar

Bhubaneswar: A three-member team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited Baleswar on Saturday to question the family of Prashant Satapathy, an Odisha native who lost his life in the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. The NIA has officially taken over the investigation from the Jammu and Kashmir police.

Prashant Satapathy’s Wife Shares Crucial Details

The NIA team conducted a detailed inquiry with Prashant’s wife, Priyadarshini, who was present at the attack site when terrorists opened fire. Investigators hope her statement will shed light on the sequence of events that led to the tragic loss of 26 lives and left several others injured.

Victim’s Family Provides Key Information

“It is now almost three hours since the NIA team officials reached our house. They are asking questions about the terror attack from my daughter-in-law, who witnessed the horror when my son was shot dead,” said Prashant’s grieving mother.

A relative added, “It is an irreparable loss for us. Prashant was the backbone of our family. The officials are seeking every detail regarding the incident.”

NIA Focuses on Possible Threats and Communications

Officials from the NIA emphasized that questioning close family members and associates is crucial for uncovering any potential threats, unusual communications, or suspicious activities that might have preceded the attack. They believe insights from survivors like Priyadarshini could be pivotal in understanding the broader conspiracy.

Lashkar-backed TRF Claims Responsibility

The investigation has revealed that The Resistance Front (TRF), a frontal organisation of the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the deadly assault on civilians ahead of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra scheduled for July 3. Authorities believe five terrorists, including Pakistani nationals, orchestrated the brutal attack, which has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

Government Committed to Justice

The NIA’s visit to Baleswar highlights the seriousness of the probe and the government’s firm resolve to bring the perpetrators of the carnage to justice. Investigations continue at a rapid pace to ensure accountability for the heinous act.