Tragic Loss: Second Migrant Worker Dies After Militant Attack in Kulgam

In a heartbreaking development from Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district, a second migrant worker has succumbed to injuries sustained during a militant attack that occurred on Friday. The victim, along with another worker, was targeted in a brazen assault while working in the Kellam area. Both men hailed from Chhattisgarh, highlighting the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by migrant laborers in the region.

Following the incident, the injured worker was rushed to a hospital in Srinagar, where he fought for his life but ultimately succumbed to his wounds. The attack has raised serious concerns about the safety of migrant workers, who have increasingly become targets amid the region’s ongoing security challenges. This incident marks a tragic reminder of the daily threats faced by those who come to Jammu and Kashmir in search of better economic opportunities.

Immediately after the attack, security forces swiftly cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to locate the assailants. The Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, condemned the attack, expressing his condolences to the families of the victims. In a conversation with the Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat, Sinha emphasized the need for enhanced operations against militants, urging security personnel to take decisive action to eliminate the threats.

In response to the tragic incident, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased workers, along with immediate assistance of Rs 6 lakh from the district administration. This support aims to provide some financial relief to the grieving families at a time of immense loss. Abdullah’s office underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations like migrant workers.

This brutal attack is not an isolated incident; it comes on the heels of a similar occurrence where a policeman was killed on July 22 in Anantnag, which has further underscored the persistent threats from militant groups operating in the region. As the government and security forces intensify their efforts to combat militancy, the need for a comprehensive strategy to protect both local residents and migrant laborers cannot be overstated.

Source: scroll.in