Jammu & Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah Condemns killing of Two Village Defence Committee Members in Kishtwar by Terrorists

Srinagar, November 8, 2024 — Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has issued a strong condemnation of a recent terrorist attack in Kuntwara, Kishtwar, which resulted in the tragic deaths of two members of the local Village Defence Committee (VDC), Kuldeep Kumar and Nazeer Ahmed Padder. The two men were attacked by terrorists while grazing livestock, marking a distressing incident that has left the local community in shock.

“Deeply saddened and concerned by the attack that resulted in the deaths of Kuldeep Kumar and Nazeer Ahmed Padder of Kuntwara in Kishtwar, members of the local village defence committee,” said CM Abdullah. “The terrorists killed two innocent men who had taken their livestock to graze. I condemn this attack unequivocally and send my condolences to the families.”

The Chief Minister also called for immediate action from security forces to reinforce counter-terrorism efforts in the region, emphasizing the need for a swift response to prevent such incidents in the future. “I expect the security forces to move quickly to plug any gaps in our counter-terror grid and ensure that attacks like this stop completely,” he asserted.

The attack has sparked renewed concerns over security in Kishtwar, where Village Defence Committee members play a crucial role in assisting law enforcement to counter local threats. The government has promised enhanced security measures as investigations into the attack continue.