Kulgam Terror Attack: The death toll in the terrorist attack on migrant workers in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district has increased to two after another injured labourer succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment.
The attack has once again raised concerns over the safety of migrant workers in the Valley, with security forces intensifying operations to track down those responsible.
Second Worker Dies After Sustaining Critical Injuries
Police officials confirmed that the latest victim has been identified as Bupinder Kumar, who was critically injured in the shooting and later passed away despite receiving medical treatment.
Earlier, another worker named Deepak had also lost his life in the same attack.
The incident occurred in the Kellam area of Kulgam, where unidentified terrorists opened fire on a group of migrant labourers working at a brick kiln.
TRF Claims Responsibility
According to security agencies, The Resistance Front (TRF), considered a proxy of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Police said the gunmen targeted the workers before fleeing the scene immediately after the shooting.
Following the incident, security personnel rushed to the area, sealed off the locality, and launched an extensive search operation to locate the attackers.
LG Manoj Sinha Orders Strong Anti-Terror Action
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha strongly condemned the attack and reviewed the situation with Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat and other senior security officials.
He directed security agencies to intensify anti-terror operations and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In a post on X, LG Sinha said that police and security forces had cordoned off the area and launched an operation against the perpetrators.
He also expressed condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for another injured labourer from Chhattisgarh, who is currently receiving medical treatment.
Omar Abdullah Announces ₹10 Lakh Compensation
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the attack, describing the killing of innocent labourers as deeply tragic.
He announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹10 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the family of each deceased worker.
This assistance will be provided in addition to the ₹6 lakh immediate relief already sanctioned by the district administration.
The Chief Minister extended his condolences to the affected families and assured them that the government stands firmly with them during this difficult time.
Concerns Over Rising Civilian Attacks
The latest incident adds to a series of terror attacks targeting civilians, particularly migrant workers, non-local residents, and pilgrims, in Jammu and Kashmir over the past two years.
One of the most devastating attacks occurred in 2025, when terrorists targeted Pahalgam, killing 26 people, including a local resident. That attack drew nationwide condemnation and prompted a major security crackdown across the region.
The Kulgam attack has once again highlighted the ongoing security challenges in the Valley, with authorities vowing to bring those responsible to justice while strengthening measures to protect civilians.