Jhelum River drowning in Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir, claims three youths

Three youths allegedly drowned in the Jhelum river at Chandergir in Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir, while washing tents, officials said. Rescue teams began a search operation and later recovered the bodies, which were taken to hospital for medico-legal formalities. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha issued condolence messages.

Officials said three youths allegedly drowned in the Jhelum river in Bandipora district on Friday. The incident happened in the Chandergir area of north Kashmir. The youths were reportedly washing tents in the river. A rescue response began soon after. Search teams later found and recovered all three bodies.

The deceased were identified as Sohail Ahmad Dar, 22, Adil Ahmad Dar, 18, and Sameer Ahmad Dar, 22. Officials said all three were residents of Chandergir. After recovery, the bodies were taken to a hospital. Authorities said medico-legal formalities were completed there as required under procedure.

Bandipora drowning incident: Leaders express grief

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed grief and offered condolences to the families, officials said. An official spokesperson also said Omar Abdullah prayed for eternal peace for the departed souls. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha issued a condolence message after the deaths were confirmed by officials.

"I am deeply pained by the loss of precious young lives in an unfortunate drowning incident in Bandipora. My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family members. We stand in solidarity with the bereaved in this difficult hour,\" the LG said in a condolence message.

Bandipora drowning incident: Political parties react

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah also expressed grief. In a condolence message, Farooq Abdullah called the deaths distressing and a major loss. Farooq Abdullah urged the administration to provide support and assistance to the affected families. An NC spokesperson said Sonawari MLA Hilal Akbar Lone visited the spot and reviewed rescue efforts.

Peoples Democratic Party said it was heartbroken by the incident. \"Heartbroken beyond words by the tragic drowning of three young, precious lives in Bandipora. The pain is unbearable. Our prayers and tears are with the grieving families in this crushing hour of loss. May Almighty Allah grant families the courage to bear this devastating loss,\" the party said on X.

Bandipora drowning incident: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq message

Kashmir’s chief preacher Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said the news left Mirwaiz Umar Farooq deeply saddened. \"...Heartfelt condolences to their grieving families in this moment of grief and pain. May Allah grant the departed souls the highest place in Jannah and give strength and patience to their loved ones,\" the Mirwaiz said on X.

Officials said the incident occurred while the youths were at the riverbank in Chandergir. Rescue teams began work immediately after the drowning was reported. The bodies were recovered after a search operation. Authorities shifted them to hospital for formalities, as condolences continued from leaders and political groups.

With inputs from PTI