Terror Attack in Ganderbal Claims Lives of Doctor and Five Labourers

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

Security forces have cordoned off the area and initiated a search operation to apprehend the attackers. Top security officials, including Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V K Birdi, have arrived at the scene to evaluate the situation. Five individuals are currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the attack.

Condemnation from Leaders

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern that the number of casualties might increase due to several injured labourers. "Praying that the injured make a full recovery as the more seriously injured are being referred to SKIMS, Srinagar," he stated on X. Abdullah condemned the attack, which occurred just four days after he assumed office as chief minister of the Union Territory.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also condemned the attack, assuring that those responsible will face justice. "I assure the people that those behind this despicable act will not go unpunished. We have given full freedom to J&K Police, Army and security forces," Sinha posted on X.

Reactions from Political Figures

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti condemned the violence against labourers in Ganderbal, offering condolences to their families. "Unequivocally condemn this senseless act of violence against two labourers in Ganderbal. Deepest condolences to their families," she posted on X before officials updated the death toll.

Peoples Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone described the attack as an "insane act of madness." He expressed sympathy for the victims' families and called for justice. "Strongly condemn the dastardly act of terror wherein two persons have lost their lives in Sonamarg. This is an insane act of madness. My thoughts with these two families," Lone posted on X.

Concerns Over Security

Tariq Hameed Karra, president of Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), voiced serious concerns over such attacks potentially disrupting peace in the Union Territory. He urged immediate government action to prevent further violence against innocent labourers.

Officials reported another incident on Friday when a labourer's bullet-riddled body was discovered in Shopian district, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.