Recent violence in Jammu and Kashmir has put the safety of non-local labourers under the spotlight, with incidents occurring almost weekly. On Thursday morning, Shubam Kumar, a 19-year-old labourer from Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, was shot and injured by unidentified terrorists in Batgund Tral, located within the Pulwama district. Reports indicate he sustained a bullet wound to his arm, prompting immediate medical attention. Fortunately, his condition is currently reported as stable.
This latest incident marks the third attack on migrant workers within just one week. Previously, seven victims, which included a local doctor and six construction workers, lost their lives during a terrorist assault on October 20 at a construction site intended for the Z-Morh tunnel project in Ganderbal district. This tunnel aims to improve connectivity between Gaganeer and Sonamarg and is anticipated to facilitate year-round travel between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The Ganderbal attack raised alarms across the region, as it was labeled as a direct targeted killing of civilians, aggravting fears about the increasing violence against non-local labourers. Security forces have been working around the clock, not only to respond to these attacks but also to prevent future incidents. The area has been cordoned off, and search operations are currently underway.
Farooq Abdullah, President of the National Conference, condemned the recent violence, pointing fingers at Pakistan and questioning the objectives behind such brutalities. "This attack was very unfortunate. Immigrant poor labourers and a doctor lost their lives. What will the terrorists get from this? Do they think they will be able to create Pakistan here?" Abdullah voiced during press releases, emphasizing the need for peace and dignity for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. He reiterated calls for Pakistan to stop its backing of terrorism if it seeks good relations with India.
Just days prior to Kumar's injury, on October 18, another brutal killing of a migrant worker from Bihar was reported, signaling to many the increased targeting of non-locals. Labourers, who migrate from other states for work opportunities, have become increasingly vulnerable to attacks. With the wave of violence sparking outcry, local leaders and authorities are pressing law enforcement to bolster security measures for these workers.
Since the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, the region has seen tensions rise not just between India and Pakistan, but also among local residents and non-locals – the latter often finding themselves caught between the crossfires of this conflict. The recent terror attacks seem calculated to spread fear and exert pressure on those risking their safety to provide for their families.
The immediate response to these attacks involves investigations and heightened security around vulnerable areas where migrant workers are employed. With the increased spotlight on migrant safety, both the state and central governments face mounting pressure to address the issue. Public outcry for action grows louder, as more lives hang precariously at the mercy of terror.
Many workers fear for their safety and question the feasibility of continuing work under such dangerous conditions. Local authorities have to tread carefully, balancing security concerns with the economic needs and rights of the labour community. Fears linger as collective trauma builds, driven by repeated violence and the uncertainty surrounding everyone’s day-to-day safety.
Condemnations have poured out from several quarters – local leaders, parties, and community groups have called for justice and stronger measures to protect vulnerable populations. There is also growing awareness of the long-term impacts such violence can have on the local economy and moral psyche of the community. There’s hope among residents and leaders alike for swift governmental action to prevent any future escalation.
Meanwhile, the injured non-local labourer Shubam Kumar’s status is receiving continuous updates, with prayers and wishes for his quick recovery flooding community channels. While the threat of violence hangs heavy, the unwavering spirit of the residents and workers reflects resilience. There’s palpable frustration, too – frustration for the senseless loss of life, and frustration with governments on both sides for not addressing the root causes of such violence.
The repeated targeting of non-local labourers underlines the tactical and psychological crises currently plaguing the region. Questions arise: How can such incidents be curtailed? What long-term measures can be established to protect workers? And, above all, how do communities bridge the growing divide brought about by such acts of violence? These remain pressing concerns as Jammu and Kashmir attempts to navigate through turbulent waters.
