Massive search operations intensify as migrant workers express fear but vow to continue working.
The targeted killing of two nonlocal labourers in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district has once again highlighted the continuing security challenges in the Valley, triggering an intensified counter-terror operation, widespread security deployment, and fresh concerns among migrant workers who form a vital part of Kashmir’s workforce. The attack took place in the Kelam area of Kulgam, where terrorists opened fire on non-local labourers working at a brick kiln.
The incident sent shockwaves across the region, prompting security agencies to launch a massive search operation to track down those responsible. In the aftermath of the attack, security has been significantly strengthened across Kulgam district. Nearly 20 villages have been brought under an extensive security cordon as the Army, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces conduct coordinated search operations. Additional checkpoints have been established, and security personnel are carrying out intensive vehicle checking and area domination exercises to prevent any further terrorist movement. The security response has also extended beyond Kulgam. Along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, security deployment has been substantially enhanced. Every vehicle travelling towards Jammu is being thoroughly checked at multiple checkpoints as authorities seek to ensure that terrorists do not exploit the highway corridor for movement or escape. The attack has deeply affected the thousands of migrant labourers employed across Kashmir’s brick kilns, construction sites, and orchards. During interactions with workers from Uttar Pradesh at the affected brick kiln, emotions ranged from fear and uncertainty to resilience. Several labourers admitted they now feel uncomfortable and insecure following the killings, worrying about the safety of their families who depend on their earnings.
Others, however, said they would continue working despite the incident, insisting that terrorism should not dictate their lives. One worker said, “We never go out unnecessarily. What happened is unfortunate and should never have happened.” Many explained that they spend most of their time either at their workplace or their accommodation and avoid unnecessary travel outside. The attack has once again raised concerns over the safety of nonlocal workers, who have repeatedly been targeted by terrorists in an apparent attempt to spread fear and disrupt normal economic activity in Kashmir. Public anger against terrorism was also visible in south Kashmir. In Anantnag, scores of residents participated in a candlelight vigil to pay tribute to the slain labourers. Protesters condemned the killing of innocent civilians and raised slogans against Pakistan and Pakistan-backed terrorist organisations. Participants said the attack was aimed at disturbing peace and communal harmony in the Valley. Several protesters asserted that the people of Kashmir want development, employment, and normalcy rather than violence. They also referred to the recent unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, claiming that Pakistan itself has been exposed before the international community and alleging that civilians there have suffered violence. According to the demonstrators, Kashmiris have rejected the path of violence and now seek lasting peace and progress.
The Kulgam attack comes barely ten days after terrorists carried out another attack in Anantnag’s Lal Chowk area, where armed militants targeted security personnel in a crowded locality. That incident had already prompted heightened vigilance across south Kashmir, and the latest killings have further intensified security concerns. Security officials believe the back-to-back attacks are part of attempts by terrorist groups to revive fear and instability. In response, security forces have expanded intelligencebased operations, increased surveillance, and strengthened deployments in vulnerable areas across the Valley. While investigations into the Kulgam killings continue, the incident has once again underlined the challenge of protecting civilian workers who travel from different parts of the country to earn a livelihood in Kashmir. Even as security agencies pursue those behind the attack, migrant workers and local residents alike hope that peace, stability, and normalcy will prevail over the violence that terrorists continue to attempt to impose.
