– Aasif Suhaf

A large-scale search operation is currently being conducted by a joint team comprising the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police, the army, and paramilitary forces in the Gagangier area of Ganderbal district. This follows a tragic terrorist attack on Sunday evening that resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including a doctor from Budgam and five non-local laborers.

According to official sources, the attack occurred at a camp primarily housing laborers and staff working on the Z-Morh tunnel project. Terrorists opened fire indiscriminately, leaving two laborers dead at the scene, while five others succumbed to their injuries later. The killed workers included a doctor, mechanical in charge, safety in charge, planning department, etc. The workers were believed to be having food in the mess when two terrorists barged in and fired on the staff indiscriminately. The firing resulted in the death of seven people which included Dr Shahnawaz (Health Incharge), Fahim Nasir (Safety Manager), Anil Shukla (Mechanical Manager), Shashi Abrol (Designer), Gurmeet Singh (Rigger), Hanif (Worker), Kaleem (Worker).

In response to the attack, the Kashmir Police Zone confirmed on social media that the area has been cordoned off and security forces are actively searching for the assailants. Sources suggest that the attackers may be foreign terrorists operating with local overground workers (OGWs), with the TRF terrorist outfit suspected to be behind this heinous act.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from various political leaders. Home Minister Amit Shah described the attack as a “despicable act of cowardice,” assuring that those responsible will face severe repercussions. He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also condemned the attack, vowing that those behind it will not go unpunished. He stated that security forces have been given full authority to respond effectively to such threats. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah echoed these sentiments, labeling the attack as cowardly and expressing concern for the injured laborers, some of whom have been referred to SKIMS in Srinagar for treatment.

This tragic incident comes on the heels of rising concerns over targeted killings in the region, highlighted by the recent discovery of a laborer’s bullet-riddled body in Shopian district just days prior.

As investigations continue and security measures are heightened, an NIA team is expected to visit the attack site today to gather further insights into this shocking event.

The local community stands united in grief as they mourn the loss of innocent lives.

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