BBC questions security lapses in Pahalgam attack

LONDON: The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has raised serious questions over the security failure during the recent Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 26 Indian tourists were killed, escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

In a detailed report, the BBC highlighted unanswered questions regarding the absence of security personnel at the popular tourist site of Baisaran in Pahalgam.

“Why was there no security presence at a location frequented by so many tourists? Why weren’t CCTV cameras installed in the park?” the report questioned.

Locals, according to the BBC, have termed the incident as a clear lapse in security arrangements.

Read more: Indian SC dismisses plea for judicial probe into Pahalgam incident

Earlier, veteran journalist and Kashmir affairs expert Anuradha Bhasin also cast doubts over the situation, stating that she had consistently seen Indian troops stationed at public venues across Kashmir. She called the absence of such presence in Pahalgam “unusual and alarming.”

Bhasin further questioned how police were able to identify the alleged attackers within hours of the incident.

“It took security forces significant time to reach the scene, yet within a few hours, authorities claimed to have names and even photographs of the suspects — how did they reach that conclusion so quickly?” she asked, suggesting the credibility of the Indian investigation remains questionable.

The Pahalgam massacre has further strained India-Pakistan relations. Following India’s move to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan has issued a strong response, and regional tensions continue to mount.