Terror Attacks Strike Kashmir Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections: One Dead, Three Injured

Terror attacks in Kashmir claim one life and injure three ahead of Lok Sabha elections, raising concerns about security in the region amidst ongoing campaigning.

On Saturday night, terrorists struck at two locations in Kashmir, resulting in the death of a former sarpanch and injuries to a tourist couple. The incidents occurred just two days before the Lok Sabha elections in Baramulla, scheduled for May 20.

The first attack targeted an open tourist camp near Pahalgam in Anantnag. Terrorists fired upon Farha and her husband Tabrez, residents of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Both sustained injuries and were promptly evacuated to a hospital for treatment. The Kashmir Zone Police stated on X (formerly Twitter), "The area has been cordoned off. Further details shall follow."

The second attack, which happened within half an hour of the first, took place in Hirpora, Shopian. Terrorists shot and killed Aijaz Sheikh, a former sarpanch associated with the BJP, at around 10:30 pm. Sheikh was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

In response to these attacks, security forces have cordoned off the areas and launched search operations to apprehend the attackers.

These incidents have occurred at a critical time as campaigning for the parliamentary polls in the Anantnag-Rajouri seat is ongoing. The attacks have raised concerns about the security situation in the region, especially given the claims of normalcy by the Government of India. The election for the Anantnag-Rajouri seat was initially scheduled for May 7 but was postponed to May 25 due to concerns about weather conditions.

Political parties across Jammu and Kashmir have condemned the attacks. Mehbooba Mufti, former chief minister and president of the PDP, expressed her concerns on X, stating, "The timing of these attacks is a cause of concern, especially keeping in mind normalcy claims touted by the GOI."

The National Conference leaders, Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, also condemned the attacks, calling them "serious impediments to achieving long-term peace in J-K." They urged all communities to come together in these challenging times and support efforts towards lasting harmony.

The BJP, in a statement, condemned the killing of Aijaz Sheikh, calling him "a brave soldier of the Bharatiya Janata Party." The party expressed solidarity with Sheikh's family and reiterated their stance against terrorism.

These back-to-back attacks have highlighted the fragile security situation in Kashmir as the region prepares for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have increased security measures to ensure the safety of residents and voters.