A tragic terrorist attack on Sunday evening near a campsite of the Z-mode tunnel at Gagangeer in the Gund area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district resulted in the deaths of six non-local labourers and a doctor, with five others suffering serious injuries and being transferred to the Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS). Police officials reported that terrorists opened fire on the labourers' camp, which housed workers from a private company involved in the tunnel construction. The assault was both swift and deadly, causing immediate fatalities and injuries among the labourers.
The deceased have been identified as Dr Shahnawaz, Faheem Nazir, Kaleem, Mohammad Hanif, Shashi Abrol, Anil Shukla and Gurmeet Singh.
In response to the attack, police and security forces rapidly mobilised to the area to apprehend the assailants and secure the location. Investigations are currently underway to identify the perpetrators and understand the motives behind this violent act.
J-K CM condemns attack
Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took to social media to express his condolences, describing the incident as a "dastardly and cowardly attack" on innocent labourers. He highlighted the importance of the project the victims were involved in and condemned the assault on unarmed individuals. Abdullah extended his sympathies to the families of the deceased and the injured, calling for justice and greater security for non-local workers in the region.
He also noted that the casualty figures from the Gagangir attack are not final, as several labourers, both local and non-local, were injured. Abdullah expressed hopes for the injured to recover fully, particularly as the more seriously wounded are being referred to SKIMS, Srinagar.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah condemned the terrorist attack on civilians in Gagangeer, J&K, calling it a "dastardly" act of cowardice. He emphasised that those responsible will not be spared and will face the strongest response from security forces. In this time of deep sorrow, Shah extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and expressed prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.
Meanwhile, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also strongly condemned the horrific terror attack on innocent labourers in Gagangir, Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that they were engaged in a vital infrastructure project. He expressed his heartfelt tribute to the martyred labourers and extended his deepest condolences to their families during this challenging time. Gadkari also conveyed his thoughts and prayers for the injured, wishing them a swift and complete recovery.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has strongly condemned the terrorist attack on civilians in Gagangeer, Ganderbal, emphasising the government's commitment to addressing such acts of terrorism decisively. He reaffirmed the resolve of security forces to eliminate terrorist elements in the region and has instructed senior officials to intensify anti-terror operations.
In a post on X, Sinha stated, "I strongly condemn the heinous terrorist attack on civilians in Gagangeer. 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. Our brave personnel are on the ground, and they will ensure terrorists pay a very heavy price for their actions." He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured, expressing that the entire nation stands in solidarity with those affected during this difficult time.
Further details are expected as the investigation unfolds and officials gather more information about the attack and the identity of the victims.
