New Delhi: A massive search operation is underway across South Kashmir after terrorists shot dead two migrant workers, Deepak and Bhupendra, triggering heightened security concerns in the Valley. The victims, who were from Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, were killed in a targeted attack that has prompted security forces to launch an extensive manhunt to trace those responsible.
The search operation is focused on Kulgam and neighbouring areas, with security personnel combing several locations along the South Kashmir region, which also serves as a key route for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. Authorities are working to prevent any further attacks as security has been strengthened across sensitive areas.
The latest incident comes just a week after police officer Ashique Hussain Qureshi was shot dead at close range in a busy marketplace in Anantnag. The attack took place near the office of the District Magistrate, where a heavily armed terrorist allegedly opened fire before escaping. The incident was captured on CCTV cameras and intensified concerns over the resurgence of targeted attacks.
The two attacks within a week have raised fresh security challenges in the Valley, especially during the annual Amarnath Yatra and ahead of the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. Officials believe the attacks were aimed at spreading fear and disrupting normalcy in the region.
As part of the ongoing crackdown, security agencies have detained more than 3,000 suspects over the past week while continuing intelligence based operations to identify those involved in the attacks. At the same time, concerns have been raised over the impact of large scale detentions, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cautioning against measures that could further aggravate the situation.
Following the killing of the migrant workers, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high level security review meeting and directed police and security agencies to reassess and strengthen standard operating procedures. Additional security measures have since been put in place to safeguard pilgrims, residents and migrant workers employed at brick kilns, orchards, agricultural fields and construction sites across the Valley.
