A massive search operation is underway in Jammu & Kashmir’s Reasi district following a devastating attack on a bus carrying pilgrims, which resulted in 10 deaths and 33 injuries. The attack occurred on Sunday evening as the bus was returning from the Shiv Khori shrine en route to Katra, the base camp of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been tasked with probing the incident, according to Home Ministry sources. Security in the area has been significantly increased.
Incident details
The terrorists, reportedly hiding in nearby forested areas, ambushed the bus and opened fire. The driver, hit by a bullet, lost control of the vehicle, causing it to roll down a gorge. Survivors recounted that the terrorists continued firing even after the bus had fallen, descending into the gorge to fire at the passengers who remained silent, pretending to be dead.
Search operations
A massive search operation involving drones and a team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has been initiated to trace the terrorists. Authorities believe that two to three terrorists, part of the same group responsible for recent attacks in Rajouri and Poonch, were involved in the Reasi bus attack. No contact has been made with the terrorists, who are presumed to have fled the area.
Rescue and Response
Police, with the assistance of local villagers, evacuated the passengers by 8:10 PM. The Reasi Superintendent of Police supervised the evacuation, and the injured were transported to various hospitals. A joint operation headquarters has been established by the police, Indian Army, and CRPF to coordinate the multi-dimensional operation to apprehend the attackers.
Official Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the situation and has directed that all injured receive the best possible medical care, as stated by Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. The attack has been widely condemned by political leaders across the spectrum, including National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, Union Minister Amit Shah, President Droupadi Murmu, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee.
The NIA’s involvement underscores the gravity of the situation as efforts continue to bring those responsible for this heinous act to justice.
