At least nine people were killed and 33 injured in a suspected gun attack on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims near the city of Reasi in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The bus was travelling from the Hindu holy site of Shiv Koli to the city of Katra when it fell into a deep ravine after a suspected gun attack.
As Indian authorities deployed a joint force of the Army, CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police to neutralise the perpetrators of the Reash terror attack, Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra strongly condemned the “heinous” incident.
“I am devastated. This heinous attack on innocent pilgrims is horrifying. Why civilians and children?! It is so hard to comprehend the hatred that is spreading across the world,” Priyanka wrote in an Instagram story.
While an investigation is ongoing, Indian authorities have announced that they will pay compensation of 1 million rupees to the families of the deceased, according to a statement from the Jammu and Kashi lieutenant governor’s office. In addition, 50,000 rupees will be paid to the injured pilgrims being treated at medical centers across the state.
A solatium of Rs 1 million will be provided to the next of kin of pilgrims martyred in the Laeshi terror attack. Rs 50,000 will be provided to the injured. The injured pilgrims are undergoing treatment in various hospitals in Jammu and Laeshi. — Office of LGJandK (@OfficeOfLGJandK) June 10, 2024
The Lieutenant Governor’s Office of Jammu and Kashmir also assured that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ordered an investigation team to monitor the situation and ensure swift punishment of those behind the terror attack.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken note of the situation and has directed me to keep a close watch on the situation. All those behind this heinous act will be punished soon. The Prime Minister has also directed that all the injured be provided with the best possible medical care and assistance. — Office of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir (@OfficeOfLGJandK) June 9, 2024
Indian President Drupadi Murmu also expressed sadness over the terrorist attack, calling it a “crime against humanity.” He offered condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for a speedy recovery for the injured.
Saddened by the terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir. This despicable act is a crime against humanity and must be condemned in the strongest terms. The nation is with the families of the victims. Praying for a speedy resolution to the incident… — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 9, 2024
Many prominent politicians, including Amit Shah, Mehbooba Mufti and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, expressed condolences and condemned the attack.
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