Key Points
- 45-year-old social activist Ghulam Rasool Magray was shot dead by suspected terrorists inside his home in Kupwara’s Kandi Khas area late Saturday night.
- The attack comes amid a high security alert in Jammu and Kashmir following the deadly Pahalgam massacre that killed 26 people.
- Security forces have launched a massive crackdown, raiding terrorist hideouts, demolishing homes of militants, and detaining hundreds across the Valley.
- Motive behind the killing remains unclear; police are investigating and reviewing CCTV footage.
- Recent arms recoveries and anti-terror operations in Kupwara highlight ongoing threats and heightened tensions in the region.
Srinagar: In a fresh escalation of violence in Jammu and Kashmir, a 45-year-old social activist, Ghulam Rasool Magray, was shot dead by suspected terrorists inside his residence in Kupwara’s Kandi Khas area late on Saturday night. According to officials, Magray was with his family when armed assailants entered his home and opened fire, inflicting fatal wounds to his abdomen and left wrist. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
Attack Amid Valley-Wide Security Crackdown
The killing comes at a time of heightened vigilance across the Kashmir Valley. Security forces are on high alert following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which left 26 people-mostly tourists-dead in one of the deadliest assaults since the 2019 Pulwama bombing. In response, authorities have intensified anti-terror operations, demolishing homes of suspected militants, raiding hideouts, and detaining hundreds of overground workers (OGWs) and terror associates across the region.
Investigation Underway; Motive Unclear
Police have launched a manhunt for the attackers, scanning CCTV footage and questioning Magray’s family and neighbors to establish the motive behind the killing. As of now, it remains unclear whether the attack was the result of terrorist targeting or personal enmity. Security personnel are confident that the perpetrators will be apprehended soon.
Major Arms Haul in Kupwara
The killing coincided with a significant security operation in Kupwara. On Saturday, security forces busted a terrorist hideout in the Machil sector, recovering five AK-47 rifles, a pistol, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, including bullets for an American M4 carbine. Officials described the recovery as a major success, likely preventing further attacks and ensuring public safety.
Broader Context: Kashmir on Edge
The recent surge in violence and security operations is set against a backdrop of rising India-Pakistan tensions. Following the Pahalgam attack, the Indian government has taken unprecedented measures, including suspending the Indus Water Treaty, closing the Attari border crossing, and expelling Pakistani diplomats. Security forces have also demolished the homes of militants and their associates, with more such actions expected in the coming days.
Summary Table: Recent Security Developments in J&K
| Incident/Event | Details/Outcome |
|---|---|
| Kupwara Social Worker Shot | Ghulam Rasool Magray killed at home by suspected terrorists |
| Pahalgam Terror Attack | 26 killed, dozens injured; led to nationwide security alert |
| Arms Recovery in Kupwara | 5 AK-47s, pistol, magazines, M4 ammo seized in Machil |
| Security Crackdown | Raids, demolitions, and detentions across the Valley |
| Diplomatic & Military Actions | Indus Water Treaty suspended, border closed, diplomats expelled |
What’s Next?
Security forces remain on high alert, with ongoing operations to track down militants and their networks. The government has vowed to bring all perpetrators to justice, while the Valley braces for further possible escalations as investigations continue and retaliatory measures unfold.
