“The targeted killing of two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh in Kulgam—following a recent policeman’s murder in Anantnag—is a condemnable attempt by terrorist groups to spread fear and disrupt peace in Kashmir.”
The killing of two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh in a terrorist attack in Kulgam is a deeply tragic and condemnable act that deserves the strongest possible condemnation. The victims had travelled hundreds of kilometres from their homes in search of livelihood, hoping to earn an honest living in Kashmir. Instead, they became targets of violence intended not only to claim innocent lives but also to spread fear, undermine public confidence and disrupt the region’s hard-earned progress towards peace and stability. The attack comes barely days after the targeted killing of a policeman in Anantnag, indicating an attempt by terrorist groups to revive fear through isolated but high-impact incidents. Such attacks are carefully designed to create psychological insecurity, discourage economic activity and project a false narrative that normalcy remains elusive. However, these desperate acts should not be allowed to define Jammu and Kashmir’s present or dictate its future. Over the past several years, the Union Territory has witnessed significant improvements in infrastructure, tourism, investment, education and public services. Record tourist arrivals, renewed private investment, expanding road connectivity and growing employment opportunities have reflected increasing public confidence. Thousands of workers, traders and professionals from different parts of the country have continued to contribute to Kashmir’s economy, strengthening social and economic ties with the rest of India. It is precisely this atmosphere of stability and economic revival that terrorist organisations seek to disrupt. By targeting migrant workers, they attempt to create fear among those who come to Kashmir for employment and business. Such attacks are not merely crimes against individuals; they are assaults on Kashmir’s economy, its reputation and the aspirations of its people for peace and development. The response to these attacks, therefore, must be firm, intelligent and measured. Security agencies have already launched extensive search operations to track down those responsible. Their efforts deserve full support, and the perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice swiftly. At the same time, counter-terrorism operations should remain guided by precision, credible intelligence and adherence to the rule of law.
“Terrorism aims to paralyze Kashmir through fear, but the most effective countermeasure is steadfast resilience. It calls for swift justice, uncompromising security, and a unified commitment to peace to ensure the region’s trajectory is defined by growth, opportunity, and unity rather than violence.”
Sustained success against terrorism depends not only on operational effectiveness but also on maintaining public trust and cooperation. The ongoing Amarnath Yatra adds another dimension to the security challenge. With thousands of pilgrims visiting the Valley under the protection of an extensive multi-layered security arrangement, ensuring their safety remains paramount. The deployment of additional paramilitary forces demonstrates the government’s commitment to preventing any disruption of the pilgrimage. Security agencies must continue to maintain high vigilance without allowing isolated incidents to create unnecessary panic among pilgrims or residents. Equally important is the role of society. Kashmir has historically welcomed people from different parts of the country who contribute to its economy as labourers, artisans, traders and professionals. Local communities must continue to uphold this tradition of hospitality and reject attempts by terrorists to divide people on regional or communal lines. Every act of solidarity with migrant workers sends a powerful message that violence cannot weaken the bonds of humanity. The tragedy also serves as a reminder that terrorism remains an evolving threat requiring constant vigilance. Intelligence sharing, community participation, technological surveillance and inter-agency coordination should continue to be strengthened to prevent such attacks before they occur. Long-term peace depends on dismantling not only terrorist networks but also the support structures that enable them to operate. Ultimately, the terrorists’ objective is to instil fear and halt Kashmir’s forward march. The strongest response lies in refusing to let that happen. Justice for the victims must be swift, security must remain uncompromising and the collective resolve for peace must grow stronger. Kashmir’s future should be shaped by development, coexistence and opportunity—not by those who seek to drag it back into the shadows of violence.
