In a tragic incident on Sunday, a terrorist attack in Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of a doctor and six labourers at a tunnel-construction site along the Srinagar-Leh national highway. The attack occurred late in the evening as the workers returned to their camp, with unidentified assailants opening indiscriminate fire on the group, which included both local and non-local labourers.
Officials reported that two labourers died on the spot, while four others and the doctor later succumbed to their injuries. The deceased have been identified as Dr. Shahnawaz, Faheem Nazir, Kaleem, Mohammad Hanif, Shashi Abrol, Anil Shukla, and Gurmeet Singh. In addition, five others are currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the attack.
The area has been cordoned off by security forces, who have launched a search operation to track down the attackers. Top security officials, including Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, have arrived at the scene to assess the situation and coordinate the response.
Condemning the brutal attack, Union Home Minister Amit Shah described it as a “dastardly act of cowardice.” He assured the public that those involved will “not be spared” and will face the full force of security operations. “The dastardly terror attack on civilians in Gagangir, J&K, is a despicable act of cowardice,” Shah stated in a post on X.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed his condolences and highlighted that the casualty figures may rise, as several injured individuals are being treated at SKIMS, Srinagar. Abdullah condemned the attack, calling it “very sad news” and emphasized the importance of protecting innocent lives, particularly those contributing to key infrastructure projects in the region.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha echoed these sentiments, assuring the public that those responsible for the attack would 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 wrote on X.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the violence, stating, “Unequivocally condemn this senseless act of violence against two labourers in Ganderbal. Deepest condolences to their families.” Her remarks came as the death toll was revised following the incident.
The attack has reignited concerns over the security of workers in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting calls for immediate action to safeguard civilian lives in the region. The situation remains tense as investigations continue and security forces intensify their efforts to locate the attackers.