Two Labourers Killed, Several Injured in Terrorist Attack in J-K’s Ganderbal
ANN NEWS DESK
Ganderbal, Kashmir – October 20, 2024: A terrorist attack in the Gagangeer area near Sonmarg, central Kashmir, has claimed the lives of two laborers and left several others injured. The attack occurred Today evening when militants opened fire on a group of laborers, targeting non-locals working in the region. Security forces were rushed to the site, and an immediate search operation has been launched to capture the perpetrators.
One of the victims, identified as Gurmeet Singh, 30, a resident of Punjab, was declared brought dead at the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) in Kangan. Five more individuals injured in the militant firing were initially treated at SDH Kangan and later referred to SKIMS Soura, Srinagar, for further treatment. Their details are as follows:
1. Gurmeet Singh, 30, son of Dharam Singh, resident of Punjab – Declared dead upon arrival at SDH Kangan.
2. Inder Yadav, 35, son of Gareeb Dass, resident of Bihar – Referred to SKIMS for further treatment.
3. Mohan Lal, 29/30, son of Somnath, resident of Kathua – Injured and referred to SKIMS.
4. Fayaz Ahmad Lone, 26, son of Zahoor Ahmad Lone, resident of Preng Kangan – Injured and referred to SKIMS.
5. Jagtar Singh, 30, son of Surah Singh, resident of Kathua – Injured and referred to SKIMS.
The attack has once again highlighted the dangers faced by non-local laborers in Kashmir, who are often targeted by militants aiming to disrupt development activities and instill fear among migrant workers.
Security forces cordoned off the area soon after the incident, initiating a search operation to apprehend the terrorists responsible for the deadly attack. Additional reinforcements have been sent to ensure the safety of workers in the region and prevent further attacks.
Leaders across the political spectrum have condemned the attack, expressing grief and calling for swift action against the militants. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha vowed to bring the attackers to justice, while PDP President Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah condemned the assault and expressed solidarity with the victims.