Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir : A zipline operator in Pahalgam has come under scrutiny after a video surfaced showing him chanting “Allahu Akbar” moments before a deadly terrorist attack at Baisaran meadow on April 22. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, has prompted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to question the operator, reported the Varta Bharati.
In the video, recorded by tourist Rishi Bhatt during his zipline ride, the operator is heard chanting the phrase and moving his head side to side just before gunfire erupts. Bhatt, who was mid-air during the attack, narrowly escaped harm.
The NIA, while investigating the operator’s actions, has reportedly considered the chant a “natural reaction,” though the timing has raised concerns.
Eyewitnesses have claimed that the attackers targeted tourists based on their religion, asking them to recite the ‘kalma’ and shooting those who failed to do so.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and raised questions about security measures in tourist areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities are urged to ensure the safety of all visitors and prevent such tragedies in the future.
