More than 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were reportedly killed in a major attack on a CRPF convoy in Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on February 14. According to reports pouring in from the state, around 40 have been injured in the attack after terrorists targeted a convoy with an explosive. Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the attack. Reports said terrorists also opened fire on the vehicle carrying jawans. The injured have been shifted to the army base hospital in Srinagar. According to an agency report, the IED blast in Goripora area was followed by gunshots. This is said to be one of the biggest attacks ever since the Modi government took charge. Sources said about 100 kg explosives were used for the strike.
Meanwhile, the security forces have launched a massive cordon and search operation in South Kashmir after the attack. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to National Security Advisor Ajit Dobal and took stock of the situation. Earlier, he tweeted: the “attack on CRPF personnel in Pulwama is despicable”. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also condemned the attack though his party colleague tried to pull Modi’s legs with some sarcastic remarks. The Rashtreeya Swayamasevak Sangh also condemned the attack and hoped the government will take culprits to task soon.
US condemns attack
US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster tweeted: “US Mission in India strongly condemns today’s terrorist attack in J&K. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The United States stands alongside India in confronting terror and defeating it.”
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