NIA questions zipline operator after tourist captures Pahalgam terror attack on video

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has reportedly questioned a zipline operator in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam after a tourist’s viral video inadvertently recorded the opening moments of the recent terror attack that killed 28 people.

Rishi Bhatt, a visitor from Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, was filming his ride at Baisaran Valley on April 22 when gunfire erupted in the background. His 53-second video has since gone viral, showing panic as people fled for cover.

Bhatt told reporters that just before the firing began, the zipline operator allegedly chanted “Allah hu Akbar” three times — a moment he claims raised his suspicions about the man’s possible role in the attack.

The NIA’s questioning of the zipline operator is part of its wider probe into the incident, which has sparked renewed concerns over security lapses in Kashmir’s high-tourism zones.

Bhatt, who was visiting with his wife and child, said the firing started immediately after he began his ride, while nine others had taken the ride before him without incident.

He also described how two gunmen were seen questioning victims about their religion before shooting them, while others reportedly fired from nearby bushes. 

The family managed to escape after hiding for several minutes.

As per reports, Bhatt said there was no army presence at the site during the attack, only local police. The Army reportedly responded within 20 minutes and helped evacuate tourists.