by Nisar Rasool
Srinagar: A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday evening when a doctor and six construction workers were shot dead by militants at a tunnel construction site in the Gagangir area of Ganderbal district, near the popular tourist destination of Sonamarg.
According to officials, at least two armed militants entered the mess area of a private company working on the Z-Morh tunnel and opened fire on the workers who were dining. In addition to the shootings, the attackers set fire to two vehicles parked outside the construction camp before fleeing the scene.
Among the deceased is Dr. Shahnawaz from Naidgam village in Budgam district. The other victims include Gurmeet Singh from Gurdaspur, Punjab; Mohammad Hanif and Kaleem from Bihar; Safety Manager Faheem Nasir from Bihar; Mechanical Manager Anil Kumar Shukla from Madhya Pradesh; and Designer Shashi Abrol. Dr. Mohammad Ashraf Gania from SKIMS Hospital in Srinagar reported that five individuals injured in the attack are receiving treatment, with their conditions being critical. “Doctors are trying hard to save their lives,” he stated.
In response to the attack, security forces, including police and army units, have been deployed to the area, launching a major operation to apprehend the militants responsible.
This marks the second attack in three days targeting migrant workers, following the discovery of a laborer’s bullet-riddled body in Shopian district on Friday.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation. Home Minister Amit Shah described it as a “despicable act of cowardice” and assured that those involved would face the “harshest response” from security forces. He extended condolences to the families of the victims and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also condemned the attack, promising that those responsible would not escape justice. He stated, “Our brave personnel are on the ground and they will ensure terrorists pay a very heavy price for their actions.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah labeled the attack as “dastardly and cowardly” and highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by both local and non-local laborers. He expressed hope for the recovery of the injured, who are being transferred to SKIMS, Srinagar for further treatment.
The incident has left the community in shock, as the victims were engaged in vital infrastructure work in the region.
