SRINAGAR: A non-Muslim worker was shot dead by Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists on Monday when he had gone to a market for purchasing milk in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.
The worker, identified as Deepu from Udhampur district of Jammu region, was working in a circus that was camping at Janglaat Mandi area which was provided security.
The circus people had their own security as well.
The victim had gone to a nearby market to purchase milk when two motorcycle-borne youths fired three bullets at him from a close range at 8.30 pm, police said.
The worker was taken to the hospital where he was declared brought dead, they said.
ADGP Vijay Kumar was closely monitoring the situation and directed the district police to intensify their search to nab the killers at the earliest.
A little known outfit, Kashmir Freedom Fighter, believed to be a shadow outfit of banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the killing.
“Terrorists fired upon one civilian namely Deepu R/O Udhampur working at private circus mela at amusement park near Janglaat Mandi in #Anantnag. He was taken to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries,” the Kashmir Zone Police tweeted.
Police said a case has been registered and investigation is going on.
The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha has condemned the terrorist attack.
Extending his condolences to the family of martyred civilian,the Lt Governor said the government and entire nation is standing shoulder to shoulder with the family.
“Our security forces remain committed in their resolve to thwart the designs of terrorists and all efforts will be made to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the Lt Governor said.
National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and vice president Omar Abdullah have unequivocally condemn the dastardly killing of a civilian in Anantnag, the party said.
“Such reprehensible acts of violence are a blot on humanity and that JKNC rank and file stand in solidarity with the victim’s family,” said the party.
“Strongly condemn the cowardly act of killing an innocent civilian in Anantnag. My heartfelt condolences to his family. Swift actions must be taken to bring the perpetrators to justice. Let’s stand Together against terror & violence,” Apni Party Chief Altaf Bukhari said.
