In a tragic incident in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, two members of the Village Defence Group (VDG), Nazir Ahmed and Kuldeep Kumar, were killed in a suspected terrorist attack. The victims had gone to graze their cattle in a nearby forest but failed to return, triggering a large-scale search operation by security forces. As of now, the authorities have not recovered their bodies.
Condemnation from Local Leaders
The killings have sparked outrage from local leaders, including Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his father, Farooq Abdullah. Both leaders have expressed deep sorrow and underscored that such violence continues to be a major obstacle to lasting peace in the region. The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) has also expressed condolences via social media, offering prayers and support to the families of the victims during this difficult time.
VDG’s Role and Community Impact
This attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir, where militant activities frequently escalate tensions. The Village Defence Group (VDG) was formed to help local communities protect themselves from such threats, making the deaths of these two members particularly poignant. The community remains deeply shaken as the search for their bodies continues, with the region on edge, hoping for a swift resolution to the situation.
Deputy CM’s Response
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has strongly condemned the attack, calling the killings in Kuntwara forest “intolerable.” He has expressed his heartfelt sorrow and called for justice for the victims, urging authorities to take swift action.
Clash in Sopore
In a separate development, security forces engaged in an exchange of gunfire with terrorists in Sopore during a cordon-and-search operation. Reports indicate that security forces have cornered two foreign militants and one local terrorist in the area, with the operation ongoing.
Surge in Terrorist Attacks
The rise in terrorist activity across Jammu and Kashmir has led the central government to ramp up counterinsurgency operations in the region. Recent incidents of violence include:
- Grenade Attack in Srinagar: On Sunday, a grenade attack near the Tourist Reception Centre in Srinagar injured 12 civilians.
- Attack on Army Ambulance in Akhnoor: Three terrorists ambushed an army ambulance near the Line of Control (LoC) in Akhnoor. Security forces neutralized all attackers during a subsequent operation.
- Gulmarg Attack: Four individuals were killed, including two army jawans and two local porters, in an attack in Gulmarg.
- Terrorist Strike in Ganderbal: A terrorist attack on a tunnel construction site along the Srinagar-Leh highway in Ganderbal district resulted in the deaths of seven people, including non-locals.
Ongoing Instability and Security Challenges
Kishtwar Terror Attack: Two VDG Members Dead as Terrorism Spikes in Jammu and KashmirThe surge in violence continues to strain both security forces and the local population as they cope with the ongoing instability in the region.
The central government has intensified combing operations in a bid to stabilize the area, but the security situation remains precarious. With tensions high, both local residents and security personnel are facing increased challenges in ensuring peace and security.
