The Supreme Court refused to hear a petition that asked for a judicial inquiry into the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The court said that such a request could lower the morale of the armed forces who are working hard to fight terrorism.

While rejecting the petition, the court criticised the petitioner for not understanding the seriousness of the issue. Justice Surya Kant said, "Be responsible before filing such PILs. You have some duty towards your country also. This is the crucial hour when each and every Indian has joined hands to fight terrorism. Don't demoralise the forces. Look at the sensitivity of the issue."

The petition had asked for a judicial commission to be formed to investigate the April 22 terror attack in Baisaran valley, Pahalgam, in which 26 people were killed. The court made it clear that it is not the job of judges to carry out investigations.

The bench responded sharply, saying, "Since when have we acquired expertise of investigation? You are asking a retired Supreme Court judge to investigate. They can only adjudicate. Don't ask us to pass an order."

The court further criticised the petitioner when he requested directions to protect Kashmiri students studying in other parts of India. He claimed that after the attack, students from Kashmir were being attacked in some areas.

The bench questioned the intent behind the petition, saying, "Are you sure about the prayer you are making? First you ask a retired Supreme Court judge to probe. They cannot investigate. Then you ask for guidelines, compensation, then directions to the press council. You force us to read all these things at night, and now you speak for students."

The Supreme Court allowed the petitioner to withdraw the plea and advised him to approach the concerned High Court for the matter related to Kashmiri students.

The Pahalgam terror attack is being investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The attackers include two members from the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba and one local terrorist.

 

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