Srinagar, December 14: On Saturday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet against an individual in connection with the deadly terrorist attack on a bus transporting pilgrims from Shiv Khori, Ransoo to Katra in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to a statement from a NIA spokesperson, the agency presented its chargesheet in the NIA Special Court in Jammu, charging the arrested individual, Hakam Khan alias Hakim Din, under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P) Act).
The attack occurred on June 9, 2024, when unidentified terrorists opened fire on the bus as it reached Kanda near Jhandi Morh.
The assault resulted in the deaths of eight pilgrims and the bus driver, with 41 others seriously injured, as the attackers aimed to instill fear among the public and those visiting Jammu and Kashmir for pilgrimage. The driver lost control after being struck in the head by a bullet, causing the bus to plunge into a deep gorge, resulting in the tragic casualties and injuries.
The NIA, prompted by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, took charge of the investigation and subsequently arrested Hakam following extensive inquiries and evidence analysis. Hakam reportedly confessed to being involved in the conspiracy behind the attack, which was carried out by three terrorists, for whom he provided active logistical support.
The NIA’s investigations indicate he assisted the terrorists with food, accommodation, and identifying the location of the attack.
Ongoing investigations are being conducted in case RC-02/2024/NIA/JMU, as stated in the release.
