Srinagar, February 3: In a tragic act of targeted violence, terrorists shot dead a former soldier and critically injured his wife and 13-year-old niece in a brutal attack in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. This marks the first civilian killing of the year in the region, authorities confirmed.
According to officials, the attack took place on Monday at Beehi Bagh, approximately 10 kilometers from the Kulgam district headquarters. Eyewitnesses reported that two armed terrorists, believed to be from the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit, arrived at the residence of Manzoor Ahmad Wagay and indiscriminately opened fire at his family members.
Wagay, a former member of the Territorial Army who had retired in 2021, was reportedly shot multiple times while trying to shield his young niece from the gunfire. The assailants targeted him as he was returning home, and his wife and niece also suffered bullet wounds in the attack.
All three victims were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. However, despite efforts to save him, Wagay succumbed to his injuries. His wife and niece remain under medical supervision, and their condition is being closely monitored.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the attack, working alongside the Indian Army and other security agencies. Authorities are examining whether the killing was an act of targeted revenge following a recent security operation in the region.
Notably, in December 2023, security forces eliminated five terrorists, including Hizbul Mujahideen’s self-styled commander Farooq Ahmed Bhat, in an encounter at Kadder, Beehi Bagh. That operation had significantly weakened the terror outfit’s presence in South Kashmir. Officials suspect that Monday’s attack may have been a retaliatory strike by terrorist groups.
The brutal killing has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum.
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the loss and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic killing of ex-serviceman Manzoor Ahmad Wagay. My heartfelt condolences to his family, and prayers for the swift recovery of his injured wife and niece. Such heinous violence has no place in our society and must be condemned in the strongest terms.”
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also denounced the attack, vowing that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. “The entire nation stands in solidarity with the bereaved family in this hour of grief. I have instructed officials to provide the best possible treatment to the injured and pray for their speedy recovery.”
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti described the incident as a senseless act of violence, stating: “Terribly saddened by Wagay’s killing. My heartfelt prayers are with his wife and niece, and I hope they recover soon. Violence has never brought any solution to Kashmir.”
Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari condemned the attack as a cowardly act, asserting that security forces will ensure justice is served. “I am deeply saddened to hear that terrorists have attacked and killed an ex-Army man and injured his wife and daughter in Kulgam. This attack is highly condemnable, and I have full confidence that our security agencies will swiftly apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.”
Veteran CPM leader and Kulgam MLA M Y Tarigami also voiced his outrage, urging authorities to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. “Condemning, in no uncertain terms, the killing of former (territorial) army man Manzoor Ahmad Wagay in Behibagh. The dastardly attack left his wife and daughter injured. Such attacks won’t serve any purpose. Urging authorities to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured.”
The attack has heightened security concerns in South Kashmir, which has witnessed periodic terrorist activities despite intensified counter-insurgency operations. Security forces have been placed on high alert in the region, and additional measures are being taken to prevent further incidents of targeted violence.
Authorities have assured the public that those responsible for this heinous act will be swiftly identified and brought to justice. Meanwhile, the local community has expressed deep shock and grief over the killing, demanding stringent action against terror elements operating in the area.