Days After Omar Abdullah's 'Restore Smiles' Pledge, Terror Attack Jolts His Government

Just days after newly sworn Chief Minister Omar Abdullah vowed to prioritize the well-being of the people in Jammu and Kashmir, a terror attack has cast a shadow over his administration. On Sunday evening, at least seven workers were shot dead by terrorists, and five others were injured in the Sonamarg area of Ganderbal district. The attack took place near an under-construction tunnel as the victims were part of a construction team working on the Z Morh tunnel, aimed at connecting Gaganeer to Sonamarg in Central Kashmir.

Security forces swiftly responded to the incident, cordoning off the area to investigate and ensure the safety of remaining workers. 

Abdullah condemned the attack, labeling it "dastardly and cowardly." He also expressed concern for the injured, stating, “The casualty figure from the Gagangir attack is not final, as there are several injured laborers, both local and non-local. Praying that the injured make a full recovery; the more seriously injured are being referred to SKIMS, Srinagar.”

The recent assembly elections had seen the BJP emerge as the second largest party, winning 29 out of the 90 contested seats and securing 25.64 percent of the vote share, further complicating the political landscape in the region.