Hindu pilgrims die after militant attack in Kashmir – DW – 10.06.2024

At least nine Hindu pilgrims were killed in Indian-controlled Kashmir on Sunday when the bus carrying them plunged into a deep ravine following a suspected attack by militants, officials said.

The militants attacked the bus, which was heading to the famous Hindu temple Mata Vaishno Devi in ​​Reasi district, said senior administrative officer Vishesh Mahajan.

“Militants ambushed the bus and fired indiscriminately. The bus fell into a ravine, resulting in the death of nine pilgrims and injuring 33,” said Mohita Sharma, district police chief of Reasi.

The Associated Press (AP) reported that some of the victims had gunshot wounds, citing a police official. The police official blamed the attack on militants opposed to Indian rule in Kashmir.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The injured pilgrims were taken to hospital and investigations have been launched to find the attackers, a police statement said.

Opposition criticizes Prime Minister Modi

The news came as Narendra Modi took oath as prime minister for a historic third term amid sharp criticism from the opposition.

“This shameful incident is the true picture of the worrying security situation in Jammu and Kashmir,” opposition leader Rahul Gandhi wrote in a post on X.

The attack came a day after Police Commissioner RR Swain said the number of local insurgents in the area had declined, but that about 70 to 80 foreign insurgents were still active.

Kashmir remains an unstable region as rebel groups continue to fight for Kashmir’s independence or annexation to neighboring Pakistan.

The conflict has claimed the lives of numerous civilians, rebels and government officials.

Both India and Pakistan control part of Kashmir, but both claim ownership of the entire territory.

mfi/kb (AP, Reuters)