In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Jammu and Kashmir Police announced on Tuesday the elimination of Junaid Bhat, a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist involved in the Gagangir civilian killings and multiple other attacks. The encounter took place in the upper reaches of Dachigam forest, on the outskirts of Srinagar.
The operation, carried out jointly by police and security forces, was initiated following precise intelligence inputs. A cordon and search operation (CASO) was launched, leading to contact with the terrorist. Junaid Bhat was neutralized in the ensuing firefight, though security forces indicated that the operation remains ongoing to ensure the area is fully secure.
Key Role in Gagangir Massacre
Junaid Bhat, hailing from Kulgam district in South Kashmir, was directly linked to the October 20 massacre at a construction site in Gagangir, Ganderbal district. Seven individuals, including a Kashmiri doctor, were killed in what became one of the deadliest terror attacks on civilians in recent years. CCTV footage from the scene had confirmed Junaid's identity as one of the attackers.
The victims were employees of a construction firm working on the Z-Morh tunnel project near Sonamarg. This brazen attack drew widespread condemnation and marked a grim escalation in targeted violence.
Union Home Minister?s Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah strongly condemned the Gagangir attack, terming it a "despicable act of cowardice." In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Shah assured that justice would be swift. "Those involved in this heinous act will not be spared and will face the harshest response from our security forces," he stated.
Context and Broader Implications
The Gagangir attack occurred amidst heightened tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, following the reorganization of the region into a Union Territory and the withdrawal of its special status under Article 370 in 2019. The incident underscored persistent security challenges, even as the first new administration in the region began its tenure.
Junaid Bhat?s elimination is being seen as a significant success for security forces, striking a blow to Lashkar-e-Taiba?s operations in the region. However, the ongoing operation highlights the continued vigilance required to address the terror threat in Jammu and Kashmir.
