The quiet village of Behibagh in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district was shattered by gunfire on Monday, claiming the life of ex-serviceman Manzoor Ahmad Wagay and leaving his wife and niece injured. This shocking incident has reignited concerns over the security of civilians, particularly those with military backgrounds, amid persisting unrest linked to organized terrorism.
Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, 39, succumbed to his injuries after the attack, which saw him and his family ambushed outside their home. Alongside him were his wife, Aaina Akhtar, 32, and their 13-year-old niece, Saina Hameed, who sustained leg injuries. They were rushed to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital in Anantnag for treatment, where Aaina and Saina are reported to be stable, though still recovering from their traumatic experience.
The sequence of events unfolded when terrorists targeted the trio at point-blank range as they sat close to their residence. The attack is part of a larger pattern of violence against ex-military personnel and their families, which has escalated fears among local communities. "This cowardly act of terror on unarmed citizens was perpetrated by inimical elements who do not want peace and prosperity to flourish in Kashmir," stated Chinar Corps, the Indian Army division operational in the region, on their social media platform.
Within hours of the attack, security forces launched a joint operation covering the Behibagh area, determined to track down the assailants who fled immediately after firing. Senior police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officers also arrived at the scene to secure the vicinity and carry out searches.
Political leaders have been swift to condemn the attack. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his sorrow online, stating, "Deeply saddened by the tragic killing of ex-serviceman Manzoor Ahmad Wagay Sahab. My heartfelt condolences to his family and prayers for the swift recovery of his injured wife and daughter. Such heinous violence has no place in our society and must be condemned strongly. May peace and justice prevail."
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha echoed Abdullah's sentiments, condemning the brutal terrorist act. "The entire nation stands in solidarity with the bereaved family in this hour of grief. I have instructed officials to provide the best possible treatment to the injured. Praying for their speedy recovery,” he stated, promising justice for those responsible.
This incident not only highlights the personal loss for Wagay's family but serves as a grim reminder of the broader security challenges faced by military personnel and their families living in volatile regions. Security incidents involving former soldiers have seen spikes over the years, and the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty continues to loom large.
According to sources, no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. The incident raises alarms, as local officials note similar attacks have occurred frequently throughout the region, particularly against those who have served or are connected to the Indian Army.
Investigations suggest this attack relates to a broader trend of terrorist activities intended to create instability and insecurity among local populations. Hazratbal MLA Salman Sagar addressed the assembly, calling for immediate actions to protect citizens, emphasizing the obligation of the authorities to maintain peace and prevent loss of life.
This sentiment was shared by other political figures, including former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, who tweeted about her deep sadness over Wagay's killing, urging for the safety and well-being of all the community members. She noted, "The attack on civilians and our brave men can never be justified; we must unite against such violence."
Past instances of abductions and assaults on armed forces members have taken place, particularly within the distraught backdrop of Kashmir where tensions run high. The targeting of Wagay, who retired from the Territorial Army only two years ago, demonstrates the appalling risk faced by veterans and highlights the vulnerabilities civilians endure during these tumultuous times.
Investigators have stressed the importance of cooperation among community members, local authorities, and national security forces to confront these hazards together—affirming the need for vigilance and unity against terrorism. This incident, emblematic of the strife persistent within the region, necessitates immediate action from law enforcement to halt the terror from undermining the very fabric of society.
Wagay had been hailed as the family's primary provider, supporting not only his wife and four daughters but also his son. His untimely death has deprived them of both emotional and financial support, leaving them grappling with uncertain future prospects.
Community leaders are now advocating for justice and protection for those affected by terrorism, echoing the need for reforms to address such conflicts more effectively. "Our only demand is justice and nothing else," stated Wagay’s family, seeking retribution for the heinous act committed against them.
With search operations continuing, officials vow to pursue the culprits relentlessly and restore security to the beleaguered towns of Kulgam and surrounding areas. The urgency to maintain peace and safeguard civilians becomes ever more pressing as they navigate the challenges posed by extremism—hoping for a return to tranquility within this historically rich yet troubled region of India.