Doctor, six labourers killed in terror attack in Ganderbal

A doctor and six labourers were killed in a terrorist attack at a tunnel-construction site on the Srinagar-Leh national highway in Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Sunday, officials reported.

The unidentified terrorists struck as the labourers and other staff returned to their camp late in the evening. It is believed that at least two terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on the group, which included both locals and non-locals.

Casualties:

• Two labourers died on the spot, while four others, along with the doctor, succumbed to their injuries later.
• The deceased have been identified as:
  • Dr. Shahnawaz
  • Faheem Nazir
  • Kaleem
  • Mohammad Hanif
  • Shashi Abrol
  • Anil Shukla
  • Gurmeet Singh
• Five others are currently undergoing treatment for injuries.

Response:
Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to track down the attackers. Top security officials, including Inspector General of Police (IGP) V K Birdi, are on-site to assess the situation.

Condemnations:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah condemned the attack, stating that those responsible will face the harshest consequences. He described the incident as a "despicable act of cowardice."

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern that the casualty figures may rise, emphasizing the need for prayers for the injured. He strongly condemned the attack, noting the victims were working on a crucial infrastructure project.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured that those behind the attack would not go unpunished, granting full authority to J&K Police, Army, and security forces.

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and People’s Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone also condemned the violence, offering condolences to the victims' families and calling for justice.

Background:
This incident follows the discovery of a bullet-riddled body of a labourer from Bihar in Shopian district, raising further concerns about safety in the region.