Condemnation Follows Terror Attack in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir

A recent terrorist attack in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has resulted in the tragic deaths of two migrant laborers from Chhattisgarh. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack, announcing financial support for the victims' families. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, who called for strict action against the perpetrators. This attack highlights ongoing security concerns in the region, as authorities intensify efforts to protect laborers and combat terrorism. Read on for more details about the incident and the government's response.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 1, 2026, 16:38 IST

Tragic Incident in Kulgam

Security personnel conduct a cordon-and-search operation at a brick kiln, in Kulgam district, on Saturday. (Photo:PTI)

Srinagar, Aug 1: The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, expressed his outrage on Saturday regarding the terrorist attack in Kulgam that resulted in the deaths of two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh. He emphasized that no financial compensation could alleviate the grief experienced by the victims' families.

Abdullah announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each family of the deceased, in addition to the Rs 6 lakh already provided by the district administration.

"These individuals came to Kashmir seeking honest work. They were innocent victims of a senseless attack. Such acts cannot be condemned enough," Abdullah stated during a press briefing.

He acknowledged that while financial aid could not erase the tragedy, it was meant to assist the grieving families during this challenging period.

"No sum of money can reverse the consequences of this attack or lessen the suffering of their families. Nonetheless, this is a modest attempt to provide some support," he remarked.

The assault occurred late Friday at a brick kiln in the Kelam region of Kulgam district, where terrorists opened fire on the two laborers, critically injuring them.

One victim, Deepak Ratray, succumbed to his injuries before reaching the hospital, while the other, Bopinder, was initially taken to the Government Medical College (GMC) Hospital in Anantnag and later referred to the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Soura, where he also passed away.

Both victims were in their twenties and had traveled to Jammu and Kashmir for employment.

In response to the attack, Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, convened a high-level security meeting in Srinagar, urging security forces to enhance targeted anti-terror operations to apprehend those responsible.

Sinha instructed all deputy commissioners and SSPs to thoroughly review safety protocols for laborers from outside Jammu and Kashmir. "We must escalate precise, high-impact anti-terror operations to eliminate the terrorists," he asserted.

He also called on employers to ensure that workers from other states and Union Territories have insurance coverage and that their information is registered with local police and district authorities.

Furthermore, he directed officials to ensure that the victims receive dignified last rites and that their families are provided with all necessary support.

The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political figures across various parties.

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, labeled the incident as "extremely tragic" and demanded stringent action against the perpetrators.

"The cowardly terrorist attack in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which led to the deaths of two workers from our nation, is profoundly tragic. I extend my condolences to the bereaved families. It is imperative that strict measures are taken against the terrorists responsible for this heinous act, and they must face the severest punishment. The nation stands united against terrorism," Gandhi expressed in a social media statement.

This incident in Kulgam follows closely on the heels of another attack where a police officer was allegedly shot dead in Anantnag. Earlier in February 2024, two non-local workers from Punjab were also killed in a terrorist attack in Srinagar.