Security forces launched a large-scale combing operation in the area adjacent to tourist spot Sonmarg on Monday, a day after a horrific terror attack at a tunnel construction site in Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal claimed seven lives.
National Investigation Agency (NIA) agents scoured the scene for crucial evidence as army, CRPF, and police units spread out across the hills surrounding the construction area to track down the perpetrators and their accomplices involved in one of the deadliest attacks on non-local labourers in the Kashmir valley.
The assailants believed to be Pakistani terrorists, meticulously studied the site layout before executing their plan. They first targeted the labourers' mess before proceeding to the officers' quarters.
Officials suspect that the attackers may have had prior knowledge of the site, potentially having worked there previously or receiving support from locals present at the location. Eyewitnesses recounted the cold-blooded firing by the attackers.
The officials said CCTV footage from the area is being scrutinised.
The Resistance Front, a shadow organisation linked to the banned Lashker-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the barbaric act.
In a region that has been plagued by terrorism for over three decades, this area had not experienced such a violent incident before.
The attack, which left a doctor and six labourers dead, unfolded when the staff had returned to their camp late in the evening after working on the tunnel project.
The terrorists, two in number, indiscriminately opened fire on the group.
Among the deceased were Dr Shahnawaz Dar, Faheem Nasir, Kaleem, Mohammad Hanif, Shashi Abrol, Anil Shukla and Gurmeet Singh.
The NIA's investigative team visited the site to gather crucial evidence that could aid in identifying the attackers.
As leaders of various political parties and outfits condemned the attack, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed determination not to
let vested interests impede the region's progress and development.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha vowed to avenge the brutal attack, holding Pakistan accountable for instigating violence in the area.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah also lashed out at Pakistan, saying Islamabad will have to stop terror incidents here if it wants to have friendly relations with India.
He said there can be no talks between New Delhi and Islamabad till the neighbouring country stops killings in Jammu and Kashmir.
"How can there be talks? You kill our innocent people and then you call for talks. First, stop the killings," Abdullah said.
Protests against the killings also erupted in various parts of Kashmir, with demands for justice for the victims and calls to end terrorism. Demonstrations were held in solidarity with the victims, emphasising a united stance against violence and terrorism.
The biggest protest march was held at Pulwama where youth held placards demanding an end to the bloodshed. They also demanded justice for the victims of the terror attack.
The protestors were carrying a huge banner that read 'Pulwama stands against terrorism'.
A similar protest was also held at Ghanta Ghar in Kulgam town.
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