‘End this wave of violence against civilians’: Omar Abdullah on Srinagar attack

Reacting to the grenade attack on Sunday that injured 12 people near a busy Srinagar market, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep concern over the recent rise in violence across the region. The incident, which took place at the crowded ‘Sunday market’ opposite the Tourist Reception Centre, left civilians shocked and raised fresh worries about security in the valley.

In a post on social media platform X, Abdullah called the attack “disturbing” and reiterated that there is no justification for targeting civilians. “The last few days have been dominated by headlines of attacks & encounters in parts of the valley. Today’s news of a grenade attack on innocent shoppers at the ‘Sunday market’ in Srinagar is deeply disturbing,” he said. Abdullah urged the security apparatus to take immediate action to end “this spurt of attacks” to restore public confidence and allow people to go about their lives without fear.

The attack comes amid a series of violent incidents that have left residents in Kashmir increasingly on edge. Abdullah’s National Conference (NC) party has also voiced concern, seeking an inquiry into the wave of violence that has erupted since Abdullah assumed office. NC president Farooq Abdullah remarked, “Violence is taking place. There should be an investigation into it. Those involved should be arrested alive so we can find out who is responsible for these attacks.”

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Congress leader Ravinder Sharma alleged that such incidents are part of a larger conspiracy to destabilize the region. Sharma noted, “This is a conspiracy to disturb the atmosphere here. Such incidents have increased ever since elections were held and the new government was formed… This proves that militancy is still there in the valley.” He called for a stringent response from the central government to uphold security in the region.

Sunday’s grenade explosion marks one of the latest incidents in a spate of attacks and encounters that have plagued Kashmir. The attack on innocent civilians at a popular market has heightened concerns about public safety, prompting calls from leaders across party lines for stronger measures to combat rising militancy.

In his closing remarks, Omar Abdullah reiterated the need for swift action, urging all security forces to work together and bring an end to these violent episodes that disrupt life for Kashmiris. His appeal has resonated with many residents who feel the immediate need for peace and security in the valley, especially as such incidents continue to affect public spaces and densely populated areas.