A deadly terrorist attack occurred on October 20, 2024, in Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir, where seven individuals, including a doctor and six construction workers, were killed at a tunnel construction site. The attack, executed by unidentified terrorists, targeted a camp housing both local and non-local workers associated with Apco Infratech, who were engaged in building the strategic Z-Morh tunnel. The Resistance Front, a Pakistan-based terror group, claimed responsibility for the assault. Following the incident, security forces have launched extensive operations to apprehend the attackers and ensure the safety of the region.
Attack Details and Reactions – The attack took place around 8 PM when gunmen opened fire indiscriminately at a construction site on the Srinagar-Leh national highway. Among the deceased was Dr. Shahnawaz, alongside three labourers, a manager, a mechanical engineer, and a designer. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack as “dastardly and cowardly,” emphasizing that it targeted unarmed civilians engaged in crucial infrastructure work. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari echoed this sentiment, labeling the act as horrific and highlighting its impact on innocent lives involved in vital projects for the region.
Context and Background
This tragic incident marks one of the deadliest attacks in recent times, occurring shortly after new government leadership was established in Jammu and Kashmir following elections held for the first time since 2014. The attack has raised concerns about escalating violence against non-local workers in the region; just days prior, another migrant worker was killed in Shopian. The Resistance Front, which has shifted its focus to include both locals and non-locals among its targets, conducted reconnaissance of the attack site for over a month prior to this incident. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is expected to take over the investigation as security forces continue their manhunt for the perpetrators.
Questions and Answers
- What happened during the Ganderbal terror attack?
On October 20, 2024, terrorists opened fire at a construction site in Ganderbal, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals, including a doctor and six migrant workers. The attack occurred as workers were returning to their camp after completing their shifts. - Who claimed responsibility for this attack?
The Resistance Front (TRF), which has ties to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack. This incident reflects a strategic shift as they targeted both local Kashmiris and non-local workers. - What were the circumstances surrounding the attack?
The incident took place in the evening when workers were finishing their day at the Z-Morh tunnel construction site, an important infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity in the region. - What actions have been taken by authorities following the attack?
In response to the attack, security forces have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators and increased security measures across Ganderbal. Investigations are underway to uncover any connections to broader patterns of violence in the area. - What reactions have there been from political leaders?
Political leaders from various parties have condemned the attack as a cowardly act of violence. The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir expressed condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed that such acts will not hinder development efforts in the region.
