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Lashkar's Pakistan-based 'Langda' named mastermind of Pahalgam attack
New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet in the 2025 Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, identifying Pakistan-based terrorist Saifullah alias Sajid Jatt, also known as ‘Langda,’ as the mastermind.
The agency said the assault was orchestrated in real time from Pakistan by handlers linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy, The Resistance Front (TRF).
The chargesheet details extensive technical and human intelligence evidence connecting the three attackers to their Pakistani handlers, including IP addresses, phone numbers, and other digital trails. The NIA also highlighted efforts by the perpetrators to spread disinformation framing the attack as a “false flag” operation.
Accused No. 1: Saifullah
Saifullah, listed as Accused No. 1, is now among India’s most wanted terrorists. Operating from Lahore, he is described as a top TRF commander responsible for directing attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. According to the chargesheet, he remained in constant contact with the attackers during the Pahalgam assault, providing real-time guidance and coordinates.
Born in Kasur, Pakistan, Saifullah infiltrated Jammu and Kashmir in 2005, stayed in Kulgam until 2007, married a local woman, and fathered a son who remained in Kashmir after Saifullah returned to Pakistan. Statements from his family and son were included in the investigation.
Extensive Network and Cross-Border Operations
The NIA chargesheet notes that Saifullah built a vast network of overground workers in South Kashmir, which was used to execute multiple attacks, including the Pahalgam massacre.
He reportedly played a pivotal role in creating TRF following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and continues to run cross-border arms and narcotics smuggling operations, including drone-based transfers.
Saifullah, who lost a leg in a previous encounter and now uses a prosthetic limb, is said to have dispatched the three attackers toward Besaran Valley on April 15–16, with the conspiracy finalized days in advance.
The NIA’s chargesheet underscores the cross-border planning, operational guidance, and network-building behind the Pahalgam attack, reflecting the continuing threat posed by Pakistan-based terror outfits in Jammu and Kashmir.
