In a tragic incident in Jammu and Kashmir, a doctor and six migrant workers lost their lives when terrorists opened fire at a construction site in the Sonamarg area of Ganderbal district. The attack, which occurred on Sunday late evening, targeted a team working on the Z-Morh tunnel project. This crucial tunnel aims to connect Gaganeer to Sonamarg in Central Kashmir.
The construction crew was engaged in vital infrastructure work when they were attacked. Following the shooting, security forces quickly cordoned off the area and initiated extensive counter-operation efforts to locate the assailants. The swift response underscores the ongoing security challenges faced in the region.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned this violent act, labelling it as a cowardly attack on unarmed and innocent individuals.
In a heartfelt message shared on X, Abdullah expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “Very sad news of a dastardly and cowardly attack on non-local labourers at Gagangir in Sonamarg region. These people were working on a key infrastructure project in the area. I strongly condemn this attack and send my condolences to their loved ones.” He highlighted the tragic loss and expressed concern for the families of the victims.
This incident comes on the heels of another violent act against migrant workers. Just a day earlier, a migrant labourer from Bihar was shot and killed in the Shopian district.
The local community discovered the worker’s bullet-riddled body in the Waduna area of Zainapora. The deceased was identified as Ashok Chauhan, who had been residing in the Sangam area of Anantnag.
Prominent political figures have spoken out against these attacks. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemned the killing of Chauhan, calling it an "inhuman and reprehensible" crime.
He expressed his condolences to the grieving family and emphasised that such acts of violence are universally condemned. In a post on Facebook, Gandhi referred to the attack as a cowardly criminal act that brings sorrow to the nation.
The frequency of such targeted attacks on migrant workers raises significant concerns about their safety in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier this year, a similar incident occurred in Anantnag district when a migrant labourer named Raju Shah was shot dead by terrorists. Despite being rushed to a hospital, Shah succumbed to his injuries, highlighting the perilous situation for non-local workers in the region.
These incidents of violence against migrant workers underscore the precarious conditions they face while seeking employment in Jammu and Kashmir. Many migrants come to the region for work opportunities, contributing to local infrastructure projects. However, the constant threat of violence creates a climate of fear, prompting questions about the safety of labourers in conflict-prone areas.
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