In response to a grenade attack that left ten civilians injured in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has condemned the violence, urging security forces to take swift action to prevent further incidents. Abdullah posted on X, “The last few days have been dominated by headlines of attacks & encounters in parts of the valley. Today’s news of a grenade attack on innocent shoppers at the ‘Sunday market’ in Srinagar is deeply disturbing. There can be no justification for targeting innocent civilians. The security apparatus must do everything possible to end this spurt of attacks at the earliest so that people can go about their lives without any fear.”
The attack occurred near the Tourist Reception Centre, a high-security area close to Srinagar’s bustling Lal Chowk, where a grenade was thrown amidst the crowds in a popular Sunday market. The explosive landed on a street vendor’s cart, triggering panic among shoppers as they scrambled for cover.
Details of the Injured
The explosion wounded ten civilians, who were immediately rushed to SMHS Hospital for treatment. The injured included Misba, aged 17; Azaan Kaloo, 17; Habibullah Rather, 50; Altaf Ahmad Seer, 21; Faizal Ahmad, 16; Uer Farooq; Faizan Mushtaq, 20; Zahid, 19; Ghulam Muhammad Sofi, 55; and Sumaiya Jan, 45. Four individuals received first aid and were subsequently discharged, while the others continue to receive medical care.
Recent Escalation of Violence
This incident comes on the heels of heightened tensions in the region. Just a day prior, security forces neutralised a top Pakistani commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in an operation in Srinagar’s Khanyar area. This spate of violence has led to a noticeable increase in security operations and public concerns about safety.
Security Response and Investigations Underway
Following the grenade attack, the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG) was deployed to the scene, and a search operation is now underway to locate those responsible for the attack. Security forces have ramped up their presence in the area, focusing on reassuring the public and maintaining stability amidst the recent rise in attacks.
Also read: Militants Attack Tourist Reception Center and Sunday Market with Grenade in Srinagar
The attack disrupted what is typically a lively Sunday shopping experience, leaving the area tense and on high alert. Abdullah’s statements underscore the urgency for security forces to prevent further civilian-targeted violence in Srinagar, emphasizing the need for stability so that residents can live without fear in their day-to-day lives.