KTR, or KT Rama Rao, questioned why India as a nation should apologise for the "hate statements of BJP bigots."
According to police, he stayed active in Kishtwar with other militants and was key in renewing militancy in the Valley.
After the explosion, Wasim, the unit's operator, fled. He had burns on his hands and sutures on his head, according to a senior police official, who added that he received first-aid and left after the event.