In a tragic incident, a bus carrying pilgrims fell into a deep gorge in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday after suspected terrorists opened fire, officials said. Nine people lost their lives while and 33 got injured in the attack. The 53-seater bus veered off the road after terrorists opened fire. The bus was enroute from Shiv Khori temple to Katra. The incident took place around 6.15 pm near Teryath village in Poni area.
Meanwhile, the security forces have launched a joint operation to hunt down the terrorist. An Army helicopter has also been brought in to conduct a search operation in Reasi.
The Reasi district administration has created a round-the-clock helpline for getting any information and assistance about the victims of the tragic bus accident at Kanda, Ransoo, Reasi.
'Those behind the attack will be punished soon': LG Sinha
Giving details about the incident and actions thereafter, J&K' Leutinent Governor Manoj Sinha said that those behind the attack will be punished soon. "I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on a bus in Reasi. My condolences to the family members of the martyred civilians. Our security forces & JKP have launched a joint operation to hunt down the terrorists," he said.
PM Modi taks stock of situation
Taking to X, Sinha said that Prime Minister Modi called him and took the stock of situations. "The Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi took stock of the situation and directed me to constantly monitor the situation and to ensure all possible assistance to the families," Sinha said. "All those behind this heinous act will be punished soon. Hon'ble PM has also directed that all the injured are provided the best possible medical care & assistance," he added.
Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah react to the attack
Reacting to the gruesome act of cowardice, Defene Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The attack on the bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir is extremely reprehensible. My heart goes out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones in this heinous act against pilgrims. I also pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."
Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah also condemned the terrorist attack and said, "Deeply pained by the incident of the attack on pilgrims in Reasi, J&K. Spoke to the Lieutenant Governor and the DGP, J&K, and inquired about the incident. The culprits of this dastardly attack will not be spared and will face the wrath of the law." "The local administration is working on a war footing to provide immediate medical attention. May the Almighty give the loved ones of the deceased the strength to bear this pain. I also pray for the speedy recovery of the injured", he added.
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