Srinagar: A doctor and six construction workers were killed when terrorists opened fire at a construction site in Gagangir, Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The victims, who were non-local labourers, were working on an under-construction tunnel in the Gund area.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack, calling it “dastardly and cowardly.” He also expressed his concern for the injured, stating, “Praying that the injured make a full recovery as the more seriously injured are being referred to SKIMS, Srinagar.”

The attack took place at a camp housing workers of a private company. In response, the police and army have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to track down the attackers.

A post from the Jammu and Kashmir Police on X (formerly Twitter) read, “Terror incident in Gagangeer, Ganderbal. The area was cordoned off by security forces. Further details shall follow.”

Political Condemnations

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari condemned the attack, labelling it “horrific.” He expressed condolences to the families of the victims and acknowledged the contribution of the labourers to a vital infrastructure project. In his post on X, he said, “I strongly condemn the horrific terror attack on innocent labourers… I offer my humble tribute to the martyred labourers and extend my deepest condolences to their families.”

Increased Attacks on Civilians

The incident highlights a pattern of recent attacks targeting non-local labourers involved in infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir. This attack is seen as an attempt to destabilize the region and disrupt key developmental efforts. Security forces continue to work towards tracking the assailants while ensuring the safety of workers in such high-risk areas.