Woman dies after Srinagar Market Grenade Attack
Woman succumbs to injuries Ffollowing Grenade Attack in Srinagar Market
On November 3, 2024, a grenade attack at the popular Sunday market near the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in Srinagar left twelve people injured, sparking a wave of shock and fear across the region. Abida, a 45-year-old resident of Naidkhai in Bandipora district, was one of the injured victims. Tragically, despite receiving treatment at the SMHS hospital, she succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday, adding a somber toll to the violent incident. The market, usually a bustling hub for locals and tourists, was suddenly thrown into chaos when the grenade detonated, causing injuries and necessitating a rapid response from local law enforcement.
In the days following the attack, the Jammu and Kashmir Police launched an intensive investigation, focusing on identifying the perpetrators and their potential connections to terror outfits. Their efforts led to the arrest of three individuals affiliated with the proscribed terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT). Inspector General of Police for the Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi, announced the breakthrough, noting that the police had gathered substantial evidence and eyewitness testimonies, swiftly solving the case.
Arrests of Lashkar-e-Toiba affiliates and ongoing investigation
The three individuals arrested in connection with the grenade attack have been identified as Usama Yaseen Sheikh, Umar Fayaz Sheikh, and Afnan Mansoor Naik. Usama Sheikh, who is considered an “over-ground worker” (OGW) with a known history of involvement in terrorism-related activities, is reported to have executed the attack with the support of the other two associates. The three suspects, all linked to the Ikhrajpora area in Srinagar, were reportedly instrumental in the planning and logistics of the attack, providing reconnaissance and additional support.
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Police records indicate that Usama Sheikh was previously detained in 2018 in relation to another terrorism-related case and was held at the Central Jail in Srinagar for several months before his release on bail. His alleged role in the recent attack has raised concerns over the effectiveness of monitoring and restraining individuals previously involved in terrorist activities. According to police officials, Sheikh's history of affiliation with terror outfits made him a key suspect early in the investigation.
Further investigation has revealed that the suspects were working under the direction of two handlers associated with the Pakistan-based LeT organization, although authorities have yet to disclose their identities. This connection underscores the ongoing influence of cross-border terrorist networks in orchestrating attacks within Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities have indicated that the case remains open as they work to uncover the full scope of the plot and the exact role of the handlers in Pakistan.
Increased security measures and calls for justice
The grenade attack has highlighted the security challenges faced in regions with high civilian foot traffic, such as the Sunday flea market near the TRC. Local law enforcement agencies have now heightened security measures, particularly in crowded areas, and are working to reassure the public that steps are being taken to prevent similar attacks. With three suspects in custody and significant progress in the investigation, authorities aim to address the concerns of the local community and demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security.
Public reactions to the attack and Abida’s death have been strong, with calls for stricter policies to monitor individuals previously associated with terrorist activities. In response, police officials have emphasized their ongoing efforts to dismantle networks that may provide logistical or financial support to terror outfits. The death of an innocent civilian has intensified calls for justice and renewed the urgency to implement effective counter-terrorism strategies in Jammu and Kashmir.
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