Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, May 1: The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday refused to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a retired Supreme Court judge to probe the recent terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

A bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud observed that the matter is already under investigation by relevant security and enforcement agencies, and the judiciary must refrain from intervening unless exceptional circumstances are presented.

“You are asking for a judge-led SIT, but the government is already seized of the matter. Investigative agencies are doing their job. Let them investigate,” the bench remarked during the hearing.

The PIL, filed by a Delhi-based lawyer, had argued that the attack on domestic and foreign tourists was a grave national security issue and warranted an independent probe monitored by the apex court to ensure transparency and accountability.

However, the court declined to admit the plea and advised the petitioner to approach the appropriate government authorities if they had concrete inputs or suggestions related to the investigation.

The Pahalgam terror attack, which drew strong condemnation from both Indian and foreign governments, had targeted tourists in a cowardly act aimed at disturbing peace in the Valley. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has since confirmed Egypt’s unwavering support to India in combating terrorism during a bilateral counter-terrorism dialogue held in Cairo this week.