Kashmir-based politicians have strongly condemned the recent killings of Indian troopers in Kathua, where a militant attack claimed the lives of five soldiers. The tragic incident has prompted an outpouring of grief.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed her shock and sorrow over the attack. “Condemn the terror attack in Kathua that claimed the lives of four soldiers,” she wrote. “Tragic and equally shocking that they are losing their lives in the line of duty in places where one found little to no trace of militancy before 2019. Tells you all there is to know about the current security situation in J&K. Deepest condolences to their families.”
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference also issued a statement condemning the attack. The party expressed its sincere condolences to the families of the soldiers. “We express our sincere condolences to the family members of the five fearless soldiers killed in the line of duty. May the family find strength to face the days ahead,” the statement read.
Omar Abdullah, another former Chief Minister, shared his grief over the incident. “Terrible news from Kathua. It’s a very bad day when you lose four brave army personnel in the line of duty. I condemn the attack unequivocally and send my heartfelt condolences to the families. I hope the injured make a swift and complete recovery,” he said.
Ghulam Nabi Azad, expressing his deep sadness, strongly condemned the ambush. He highlighted the rising terrorism in Jammu province and urged the government to take decisive action. “Deeply saddened and strongly condemn the ambush on an army vehicle by terrorists in Kathua, resulting in the tragic loss of four jawans and injuries to six others. The rise in terrorism in Jammu province is deeply concerning. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured and their families. The government must act decisively to tackle terrorism and ensure public safety,” he wrote.
BJP leader Ravinder Raina also condemned the attack, attributing it to Pakistani terrorists. “Pakistani terrorists have once again carried out a cowardly attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorists targeted an Army vehicle at night in Kathua’s Machedi area. Our soldiers were martyred while saving the country. The entire country salutes the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers,” he said.
Sajad Lone expressed his condolences and condemned the attack as well. “Yet again news of a dastardly terror attack in Kathua. Four Army men have lost their lives and more are injured. Strongly condemn the attack. My thoughts and prayers are with families. May they find peace and courage to bear this terrible loss. May the departed souls rest in peace,” he said.
The attack occurred on July 8, when militants targeted an army truck passing through Badnota village in Jammu Kashmir’s Kathua district. Five troopers were killed and several others injured.
The incident was reminiscent of a similar attack in Rajouri in December 2023, where four soldiers were killed, indicating an uptick in militant attacks on troops, particularly in the Jammu region.