Digital forensic analysis of mobile phones recovered from three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists involved in the Pahalgam massacre suggests the attack was meant to send a direct and violent message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Investigators found that the message came shortly after a speech by Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir on April 16, 2025. The attack followed six days later, indicating a possible link between the rhetoric and the violence.

Threat messages recovered from terrorist devices

One of the recovered phones belonged to terrorist Hamza Afghani. Data from the device revealed a threat warning of another attack. A banner on the phone read: “Modi, tera baap ayaa (Modi your father has come). Abu Hamza (generic name for jihadists). Group—IDH (Indian Dog Hunters).”

Records show that Hamza entered India through the Tulail Valley in the Gurez sector in 2024. He later joined another operative, Faizal Jatt, in the Ganderbal area. Indian Army para-commandos killed Hamza during Operation Mahadev on July 28, 2025.

Survivor account highlights intent

The investigation also refers to a survivor’s account from Pahalgam. A woman named Pallavi and her son Abhijeya were spared during the attack, while her husband Manjunath was killed.

According to Pallavi, the attackers told them they would not harm them but asked them to deliver a message to Modi. The family had travelled from Shivamogga for a holiday when the attack took place at Baisaran Valley.

Network and prior attacks traced

Probe agencies found that Faisal Jatt operated under instructions from a handler across the Line of Control, identified as Sajjid Jatt. He had earlier been involved in an attack on an Indian Air Force convoy in Sashithar on May 4, 2024.

The group later moved from the Poonch-Rajouri region to the Kashmir Valley in July 2024. Security forces had earlier engaged Suleman Shah in an operation in Dachigam on December 3, 2024, where another militant, Junaid, was killed.

Data from seized phones showed that handlers in Pakistan gave clear orders. They instructed the attackers to target tourists in Pahalgam, verify their identities, and specifically kill Indian nationals.

India’s response and counter-terror stance

The report also highlights India’s pattern of response to terror attacks. It mentions operations such as the Uri Surgical Strikes, Balakot Airstrike (referred to as Operation Bandar), and Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam incident.

Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly outlined India’s approach to terrorism. He stated: “ Hum Ghar main gushenge bhi aur marenge bhi (we will not only enter the house or country giving shelter to terrorist but also kill them).”

Ongoing concerns

The findings underline the continued threat from cross-border terror networks and the role of handlers operating from Pakistan. They also show how attacks are planned not only for violence but to send political messages.