Pahalgam attack a result of security failure: Ex-RAW chief

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Pahalgam attack a result of security failure: Ex-RAW chief​

Whatever happened in Pahalgam was due to a failure of security agencies as no security was in place, reveals AS Dulat.

News Desk
May 01, 2025

Former head of India’s Research and Analysis Wing Amarjeet Singh Daulat,


Amarjeet Singh Daulat, former head of India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), has acknowledged that the deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam, located in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), was a result of security lapses by Indian intelligence agencies. The assault, which killed 26 people, has since escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.

In an interview with BBC, Daulat noted that despite the current strained relations, there are alternative methods to address the situation, such as backchannel diplomacy. He referred to comments by former US President Donald Trump, who suggested that India and Pakistan have been in conflict for years and will manage their own issues.

Regarding the possibility of Pakistan’s involvement, Daulat expressed that presenting evidence to the international community would strengthen India’s position. He stated, “Yes, if that’s done, it would be good.”

The attack has led to significant diplomatic repercussions. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, leading to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, expulsion of Pakistani diplomats, and closure of borders.

In response, Pakistan denied the allegations and suspended the Simla Agreement, restricted trade, and closed its airspace. Border skirmishes between Indian and Pakistani forces have been reported along the Line of Control.

Daulat emphasised that while surgical strikes may be considered, the notion of full-scale war is counterproductive. He stated, “War is the last bad option,” and cautioned against escalating tensions into a nuclear conflict.

He said, “If a Balakot-style operation is deemed necessary, it should be carried out. Limited military action is acceptable. But when you start talking about war, that implies nuclear conflict, and such rhetoric is merely meant to intimidate.”

In response to a question about whether the Pahalgam incident was a failure of security or intelligence, former RAW chief said, “Whatever happened in Pahalgam was due to a failure of security agencies because there was no security in place.”

He further added, “When we talk about intelligence failures, we must remember that in Kashmir, any important information will come from the Kashmiris themselves. It is therefore very important to keep the Kashmiris on our side.”

He alleged, “The Kashmiris are not to blame for the Pahalgam attack. Yes, some local individuals may have been involved, but in most cases, interference came from across the border.”

Daulat concluded by stating that while the situation is tense, it is not beyond resolution. He emphasised the importance of dialogue and cooperation to address the underlying issues and prevent further escalation.