Omar Abdullah Condemns Killing of Non-Local Labourer in J&K’s Shopian, Calls for Strong Denunciation

SRINAGAR, October 19: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the tragic killing of a non-local labourer in the Shopian district, calling the act “abhorrent” and demanding that such incidents be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

The body of the labourer, identified as Ashok Chauhan, was discovered in a field in the Wachi area of Zainapora in South Kashmir on Friday, October 18, 2024. According to police reports, Chauhan’s body bore two bullet wounds, indicating a targeted attack. Authorities believe militants are responsible for the killing, marking another instance of violence targeting non-local workers in the region.

Expressing his grief, Omar Abdullah took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the attack. “Very sorry to hear about the death of Ashok Chouhan at the hands of militants in South Kashmir. These attacks are abhorrent & must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. I send my condolences to the family & loved ones of the deceased,” he posted.

Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are actively searching for the assailants. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders and civil society groups, who are urging the government to ensure the safety and security of non-local labourers working in the region. The state administration has intensified security measures and deployed additional forces in vulnerable areas to prevent further attacks.