Kashmiri Pandit govt employee killed

SRINAGAR: A government employee belonging to the Kashmir Pandit community was killed by militants inside his office in Chadoora of Budgam district in Srinagar on Thursday, drawing strong condemnation from political parties.

Two gunmen entered the Tehsil office in Chadoora town and shot at Rahul Bhat, a clerk posted under the special employment package for migrants.

The officials said Bhat, who was residing in a migrant colony at Sheikhpura in Budgam district, was shifted to a hospital here but succumbed to injuries.

“The injured was immediately brought to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar for treatment where he succumbed to his injuries. Preliminary investigation reveals that 2 terrorists are involved in this heinous crime & have used pistol for committing this crime, the Kashmir Zone Police tweeted.

A hunt has been launched to track down the assailants.

A little-know outfit, Kashmir Tigers, has claimed responsibility for Bhat’s killing.

There has been a spurt in attacks on non-muslims and outsiders living in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.

As many as 14 people belonging to Jammu and Kashmir’s minority Hindu community, including Kashmiri Pandits, were killed by militants between August 2019 and March 2022.

Those targeted by the extremists included prominent businessmen, sarpanchs and block development council members in various parts of Kashmir.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and political parties in Kashmir condemned Bhat’s killing.

“I strongly condemn the barbaric killing of Rahul Bhat by terrorists at Budgam. Those behind this despicable terror attack will not go unpunished. J&K Govt stands in solidarity with the bereaved family in this hour of grief, Sinha tweeted.