Indian Army has initiated a search operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district following a tragic terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims. The attack occurred on Sunday evening, resulting in the death of ten individuals and injuring 33 others.
State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been deployed to assist in the search operation, which includes the utilization of drones to scour dense forest areas surrounding the incident site.Reasi District Commissioner Vishesh Mahajan confirmed the casualties, stating that ten people lost their lives in the attack. He also mentioned that 33 individuals sustained injuries in the incident.
According to officials, the bus, en route from the Shiv Khori shrine to Katra, was ambushed by terrorists around 06:10 PM in the Pouni area of Reasi district, bordering Rajouri district. The terrorists opened fire, causing the driver to lose control, leading the bus to plunge into a gorge.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi, Mohita Sharma, informed ANI that rescue operations have been completed, and the injured have been transported to Naraina and Reasi District hospitals. While the identities of the passengers are yet to be confirmed, initial reports suggest they hail from Uttar Pradesh.
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, condemned the cowardly attack and assured swift action against the perpetrators. He expressed condolences to the families of the victims and highlighted the joint efforts of security forces and JKP in launching a counter-operation against the terrorists.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took cognizance of the situation, directing continuous monitoring and ensuring the best medical care for the injured. The PM vowed that those responsible for the heinous act would face consequences.
Defence Expert Hemant Mahajan emphasized the timing of the attack, suggesting a clear objective behind it. He noted the increasing tourism in Kashmir and stressed the need for security forces to take proactive measures to apprehend or neutralize those involved in such attacks, especially with the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.
The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region and the need for concerted efforts to combat terrorism and safeguard the lives of civilians and pilgrims.
