RAOUF DAR
SRINAGAR — A Kashmiri Pandit was shot dead by suspected militants at Achhan village in Pulwama district of South Kashmir on Sunday.
Sources said, the Kashmiri Pandit identified as Sanjay Sharma, son of Kashi Naath Sharma of Achhan Pulwama, a security guard by profession, was fired upon and injured by suspected militants at his native village.
He was immediately rushed to District Hospital Pulwama for treatment, where doctors declared him brought dead, they said.
Sanjay is survived by wife and three minor children including two daughters Sakshi and Diksha Sharma.
As the news of Sanjay’s killing spread, pall of gloom fall in Achhan village. People from all walks of village including women were seen mourning the death of their minority community member.
The villagers also helped in performing the last rites of Sanjay Sharma.
Meanwhile, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Kashmir, Rayees Mohammad Bhat visited the spot and said, the militants involved in this heinous crime will be tracked down and neutralized soon.
Former Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir and People’s Conference Chairman also condemned the killing of Sanjay Sharma in Achhan Pulwama.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President, Mehbooba Mufti in a tweet said, the vicious cycle of killings doesnt seem to end. GOI has failed to protect minorities in J&K & reduced them to sitting ducks. Everyone here is paying a heavy price for this facade of normalcy. My deepest condolences to his family.
Deeply saddened to hear of the demise of Sanjay Pandith of Achan in Pulwama district of South Kashmir. Sanjay was working as a bank security guard & was killed in a militant attack earlier today. I unequivocally condemn this attack & send my condolences to his loved ones, National Conference (NC), Vice-President Omar Abdullah tweeted.
Condemn the dastardly and cowardly killing of Sanjay Pandit. I wonder what these thugs will achieve. Killing innocents who chose to stay back or come back suits only the worst enemies of Kashmiris. My prayers with family of Mr Sanjay, tweeted People’s Conference (PC), Chairman Sajad Lone. — (KIMS)