The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the Reasi terror attack case in Jammu and Kashmir and initiated a comprehensive inquiry to uncover the underlying conspiracy behind the incident.
Officials stated on Monday that the anti-terror agency took over from the Jammu and Kashmir Police on June 15 and filed a fresh First Information Report (FIR) following orders from the Ministry of Home Affairs, which recognized the gravity of the attack.
Details of the Gruesome Attack
The attackers targeted a bus carrying pilgrims on the evening of June 9, the same day the entire Union Cabinet, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was taking oath at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi.
The bus, transporting pilgrims from Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district, fell into a gorge after the terrorist attack, resulting in at least nine fatalities and injuring 33 others. A day after the attack, an NIA team visited the site to assist local police and assess the ground situation. The NIA’s forensic team also visited the location to aid in evidence collection.
Role of the NIA
As India’s premier counter-terrorism agency, the NIA frequently collaborates with state police to handle high-profile and sensitive cases related to terror attacks. Its involvement in this case is expected to bolster the investigation and ensure a thorough examination of the evidence.
The terrorists conducted the attack on the bus in the Teryath village of Pouni area, Reasi district, bordering Rajouri district, around 6:10 pm on June 9. Rescue operations were promptly completed, and the injured were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals.
