On Tuesday, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, has stated that preliminary investigations suggest the involvement of two foreign terrorists in the recent deadly attack in Gagangir.
The incident, which occurred at a construction site for the Z-Morh tunnel, resulted in the tragic deaths of seven individuals, including six non-local workers and a local doctor.
In a press briefing held in Jammu on Monday, Lt Governor Sinha detailed the events surrounding the attack.
He stated, “According to an initial investigation, two people with masks covering their faces, both possibly foreign terrorists, entered the mess of the company constructing the Z-Morh tunnel and opened indiscriminate fire. Seven people killed and four injured.”
Sinha further reported that the terrorists are likely to have infiltrated the region from Bandipora in North Kashmir. Additionally, he assured the public that security forces are actively pursuing the attackers.
Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor further asserted, “We are tracking their movements, and I have full confidence that they will be neutralized soon.”
The attack unfolded on Sunday when laborers and staff associated with the Z-Morh tunnel project returned to their camp late in the evening.
It has raised concerns about the safety of workers engaged in crucial infrastructure projects in the region.
The construction of the Z-Morh tunnel significantly enhances connectivity and boosts the local economy.
Widespread Condemnation From Leaders Following Gagangir Attack
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from various leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister for Roads and Highways Nitin Gadkari, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, as well as former Chief Ministers Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Mehbooba Mufti.
They collectively denounced the attack on unarmed civilian workers, calling it a cowardly act that threatens the peace and development of the region.
In response to the tragedy, Lt Governor Sinha announced that ex gratia relief would be provided to the victims’ families.
The private company, APCO, involved in the tunnel construction, has also committed to offering support to the next of kin of those affected.
The Pakistan-based terrorist organization, The Resistance Front (TRF), has since claimed responsibility for the attack, further intensifying concerns about regional security and the safety of civilians engaged in development work.
Authorities have emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of workers and preventing such incidents in the future, while also enhancing measures to safeguard vital infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir.
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