Terror Attack in Ganderbal Claims Lives of Doctor and Six Labourers

A terrorist attack on a tunnel-construction site along the Srinagar-Leh national highway in Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal district resulted in the deaths of a doctor and six labourers. The attack occurred late Sunday evening when the workers had returned to their camp, according to officials. The attackers, believed to be at least two, opened fire indiscriminately on both local and non-local labourers.

While two labourers died immediately, four others and the doctor succumbed to their injuries later. Five individuals are currently receiving treatment for their injuries. The deceased have been identified as Dr Shahnawaz, Faheem Nazir, Kaleem, Mohammad Hanif, Shashi Abrol, Anil Shukla, and Gurmeet Singh.

Security Measures and Official Responses

Security forces have cordoned off the area and initiated a search operation to locate the attackers. Top security officials, including Inspector General of Police Kashmir V K Birdi, have arrived at the scene to evaluate the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah condemned the attack, stating that those responsible will face severe consequences from security forces.

In a post on X, Shah expressed his condemnation: "The dastardly terror attack on civilians in Gagangir, J&K, is a despicable act of cowardice. Those involved in this heinous act will not be spared and will face the harshest response from our security forces."

Condemnations from Political Leaders

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern that the number of casualties might increase due to several injured labourers. He stated that more seriously injured individuals are being referred to SKIMS in Srinagar. Abdullah condemned the attack on non-local labourers working on an important infrastructure project in Sonamarg.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also condemned the attack. He assured that those behind this act would not go unpunished and mentioned that full freedom has been given to J&K Police, Army, and security forces.

Reactions from Other Political Figures

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti condemned the violence against labourers in Ganderbal. She expressed her deepest condolences to their families before officials updated the death toll. Peoples Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone described the attack as an "insane act of madness" and called for justice for the victims' families.

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra voiced serious concern over such incidents affecting the region's atmosphere. He urged immediate government action to prevent further attacks on innocent labourers.

Officials reported another incident on Friday where a labourer's bullet-riddled body was found in Shopian district. This highlights ongoing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.