The apex court lashes out at the petitioners for seeking a judicial probe into the Pahalgam terror attack and that such actions can go against the forces’ morale.
The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea seeking a judicial probe into the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and made strong remarks during the hearing.
The bench questioned the intent behind the petition, asking whether the objective was to demoralise the security forces as they prepare for a potential military response.
The court also raised concerns about the judiciary’s role in such matters, with one judge asking, “Since when did Supreme Court judges become experts in anti-terror investigations?” Emphasising the need for responsibility while filing public interest litigations, Justice Surya Kant remarked, “Be responsible before filing such PILs. You have a duty towards the country as well. Is this the way to demoralise our forces?”
In response, the petitioner urged the court to consider the matter, stating that the plea was filed on behalf of Kashmiri students studying in other states who might be at risk of being targeted either by terrorists or by individuals seeking revenge for the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, mostly civilians.
This concern aligns with the position of the Jammu and Kashmir government, which has expressed similar apprehensions.
In the days following the attack, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had deployed state ministers to coordinate with their counterparts in other regions to ensure the safety and well-being of Kashmiri students and residents living outside the union territory.
Pahalgam attack
More than a week after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, for which The Resistance Front — a proxy of the banned Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba — claimed responsibility, the perpetrators remain at large.
A massive joint manhunt is underway, involving the military, local police, border forces, and intelligence agencies. Sketches of the suspected terrorists have been released to aid in their identification and capture.
The National Investigation Agency has taken over the probe to examine all aspects of the incident, including how the attack was carried out and whether any security lapses contributed to the breach.
