J&K: Two policemen killed, at least 12 injured as militants fire at their bus in Srinagar

Two Jammu and Kashmir policemen died and at least 12 were injured after militants attacked a police bus in Zewan area of Srinagar on Monday.

The police personnel who died have been identified as Assistant Sub-Inspector Ghulam Hassan and Selection Grade Constable Safique Ali.

All the injured policemen have been hospitalised, and their condition is stable, the police said.

The militants opened fire at the vehicle of the 9th battalion Indian Reserve Police, that was parked on the Pantha Chowk-Khonmoh Road.

The police said the area has been cordoned off.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police said in a press release that the attack took place around 6 pm. The police said that as per preliminary investigation, three militants fired indiscriminately on the vehicle.

Although security forces retaliated, the militants escaped from the spot, according to the press release. One militant was injured in retaliatory firing, the police added.

Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar cited “credible sources” as saying that the attack was carried out by an organisation named Kashmir Tigers, said to be an offshoot of the Jaish-e-Mohammed.

The police have registered a case in the matter.

Political leaders pay tributes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the families of the security personnel who died in the attack. He has also sought details about the attack, according to the prime minister’s office.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the attack and paid homage to the police personnel who died. “We are committed to ensure that perpetrators are punished,” he said.

Sinha added that he has directed the authorities concerned to provide best possible treatment to the injured. “Our police and security forces are determined to neutralize the evil forces of terrorism,” he said.

National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah described the attack as unfortunate and condoled the deaths of the security personnel, ANI reported. “I urge the government that if these things have to be brought to their end, then they should speak of winning hearts,” he said. “If they win hearts, these things won’t happen.”

Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti expressed her condolences to the families of the police personnel who died. “GOIs [Centre’s] false narrative of normalcy in Kashmir stands exposed yet there has been no course correction,” she said.