Reasi bus crash: Nine pilgrims die when their bus comes under fire in Jammu

At least eight pilgrims were killed and several others injured when their bus came under fire from armed men in Jammu on Sunday afternoon.

The 53-seater bus was fired upon at around 6.10 pm in Pouni area of ​​Reasi district in Jammu. Officials said the bodies of the victims, including the bus driver, bore bullet wounds, adding that empty cartridge cases were also found at the scene.

“Initial reports suggest that terrorists fired at the passenger bus travelling from Shiv Khori to Katra. The driver lost control of the bus and it fell into a ravine. Thirty-three people were injured,” said Mohita Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Reasi.

The rescue operation was completed by 8 pm and the injured were shifted to three hospitals. Most of the victims were not local residents but pilgrims returning to Katra from the Shiv Khori temple. Security forces have set up checkpoints and started search operations in the area.

The attack occurred as Narendra Modi was taking oath of office as Indian Prime Minister in New Delhi, beginning his third consecutive term in office.