Terrorist Attack in Jammu and Kashmir Leaves Nine Dead and 33 Injured
In a tragic incident this evening, nine people were killed and 33 injured after a bus carrying pilgrims was attacked by terrorists and plunged into a gorge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district.
The Attack
The bus was en route to the Shiv Khori cave temple when terrorists opened fire, causing the driver to lose control and the bus to fall into a gorge. District Magistrate Vishesh Mahajan confirmed the casualties, and Senior Superintendent of Police Mohita Sharma explained that the attack caused the bus to veer off the road.
Rescue Efforts
Rescue operations were swift, with locals, police, army, and paramilitary forces rushing to the scene. Visuals from the site showed bodies scattered along a hillside and the heavily damaged bus. Despite the rapid response, the identities of the victims have not yet been confirmed, but officials noted that they were not locals.
Terrorist Activity in the Region
This attack marks a significant escalation in violence in Reasi, a district that has been relatively untouched by terrorist activities compared to its neighbors, Rajouri and Poonch. Sources revealed that three foreign terrorists, armed with American-made M4 carbines, were involved. There are unconfirmed reports of at least two terrorists hiding in the forested areas of Reasi, prompting a massive search operation.
Government Response
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the attack, stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the situation. Sinha assured that the perpetrators would not be spared and extended his condolences to the families of the victims.
Prime Minister Modi, who took his oath for a third term earlier in the day, has been in constant contact with Sinha. Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, vowing that the culprits would face the full wrath of the law.
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Political Reactions
From the opposition, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi condemned the “cowardly attack,” highlighting the concerning security situation in J&K. His sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, called terrorism a violent act against humanity.
Conclusion
This attack has raised alarm bells within India’s intelligence services and has highlighted the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region. The security forces’ swift response and ongoing efforts to locate the remaining terrorists underscore the severity of the situation.