By News Desk 
The investigation into the brutal massacre in Pahalgam, where 26 innocent people lost their lives—including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen—is now being led by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). A major breakthrough has come to light: reports indicate that a satellite phone, banned for use in India, was active in the area during the attack. Sources suggest the device was manufactured by Chinese telecom giant Huawei.
Huawei’s telecom equipment is not approved for deployment in India’s 5G infrastructure due to national security concerns. While not outright banned, Indian telecom operators have largely avoided using equipment from Huawei and ZTE, as these companies do not meet the government’s criteria for “trusted sources.” Despite the higher cost, Indian firms have preferred sourcing equipment from European manufacturers to ensure better security compliance.
Huawei Under Global Scrutiny
The suspicion surrounding Huawei is not limited to India. The U.S. and several European nations have also imposed severe restrictions on the company. In July 2022, intelligence agencies from the United States and the United Kingdom held a joint press conference to warn about the potential threats posed by China, labeling it a significant risk to both economic and national security. In response, countries including the U.S., UK, Australia, and New Zealand have removed Huawei from their 5G networks. China, however, has denied these allegations.
NIA’s Comprehensive Investigation Underway
The Pahalgam attack is being regarded as one of the most violent incidents in Kashmir in recent years. The assailants targeted unarmed tourists visiting the peaceful Baisaran Valley. NIA is now leveraging forensic science and technical intelligence to uncover the full extent of the plot. The agency, with support from Western counterparts, is also trying to trace the satellite phone used during the attack.
The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-based terror outfit, has claimed responsibility for the massacre.
Terror Threats and Demographic Claims
TRF further alleged that over 85,000 “outsiders” have been settled in the region in an effort to alter the demographic composition of Jammu and Kashmir. The group issued threats of violence against those who attempt to “claim ownership” of the land. Eyewitnesses report seeing more than five attackers. The NIA is meticulously investigating the sequence of events, with senior police officials also on the ground collecting evidence.
Supporters and facilitators of terrorists believed to be hiding within Jammu and Kashmir are also under scrutiny.
Bounty for Suspects and National Commitment to Justice
Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir Police had released sketches of three suspects and announced a reward of ₹20 lakh for information leading to their capture. The NIA has reaffirmed its commitment to unearthing the full terror conspiracy and ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Forensic teams are actively working at the crime scene, and the Ministry of Home Affairs has officially handed the case over to the NIA. In a statement, the agency vowed to use every resource at its disposal to track down and prosecute those responsible.