A recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir took the life of two migrant labourers while another two were grievously injured on October 19, 2024, in the Ganderbal district. Only a few days after the attack, this is the second targeted one in this region, marking an alarming rise in violence against non-local workers.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
The incident occurred when terrorists opened fire on the labourers, who were working from outside Jammu and Kashmir, in the Wanpoh area of Ganderbal while they were reportedly engaged in various forms of manual labour. Two labourers died on the spot, while two others were taken to a local hospital, where they remain critically injured.
The border security forces soon swung into action, launching a manhunt to nab the assailants involved in this gruesome act. Initial investigations suggest that this could be part of a growing trend of violence against migrant workers who are soft targets for terrorist groups operating in the region.
Increasing Violence Against Migrant Workers
From the day before, two non-local labourers were killed during a similar assault in Kulgam. The extreme rising curve in such targeted attacks has raised fears among local authorities and security forces. The migrant worker community-most of whom travel to the region for jobs-is also concerned.
Media reports say that terrorists have targeted non-local workers in an attempt to destroy the economy and instill fear. Most of these workers are from poor states of India living from day to day. Sustained attacks have not only put their lives in danger but have also posed a threat for the local economy dependent on their labour.
Security Measures and Government Response
After the attack, security checks were stepped up across the region, especially in areas populated by migrant workers. The government has condemned the attack, and the high-ranking officials who spoke on the matter have reiterated their resolve to punish the perpetrators and ensure the safety of all workers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Political leaders, some including Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of lives and vowed to take stringent action against those responsible. Besides, the government has assured that it will enhance security in sensitive areas to avoid such attacks on non-locals in the future.
The Disturbing Trend
The recent spate of targeted killings, nevertheless, forms part of the bigger campaign by the militant forces to jeopardize peace and security in the region. Several incidents of targeted killings with the same form aimed at drawing instability in Jammu and Kashmir have been witnessed in the last few years, particularly since the abrogation of Article 370, which provided for the special status of J&K, in 2019.
Although the region has seen a gamut of developments and improvements in security matters, the increase in targeted violence against civilians remains a major cause for concern. Migrant laborers are now deemed particularly vulnerable and have become the unfortunate target of violence owing to their importance to the regional economy.
As Jammu and Kashmir continue to battle the threat posed by terrorism, worker safety has emerged as a paramount concern. While security forces put in a commendable effort to restore peace, the fear and anxiety among the non-local workers are palpable. How government responds, bolstering security and compensating families of the deceased, will go a long way in restoring confidence and meeting the needs of those whose contributions to the regional economy are critical.
