Probe Intensifies After Firing at Farooq Abdullah in Jammu; Political Leaders Condemn Attack

Jammu, March 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday launched an extensive investigation into the background and possible motives of the man who attempted to assassinate former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah during a marriage function in Jammu. The shocking incident has triggered widespread condemnation from political leaders across the region.

According to officials, investigators are examining the antecedents of the accused, identified as Kamal Singh Jamwal, a 63-year-old resident of Purani Mandi in Jammu. Police are looking into his personal background, social connections and any possible organisational links in an effort to determine the motive behind the attack.

Dr Abdullah narrowly escaped the assassination attempt on Wednesday evening while attending a wedding function in the Greater Kailash area of Jammu. The National Conference leader had been leaving the venue along with Surinder Choudhary, the Deputy Chief Minister, and Nasir Aslam Wani, advisor to the Chief Minister, when the attacker allegedly opened fire from behind.

Security personnel accompanying Abdullah responded immediately, overpowering the assailant before he could cause further harm. Police recovered a licensed pistol from Jamwal’s possession, which was reportedly used in the attempted attack.

Senior police officers have begun detailed questioning of the accused. During initial interrogation, Jamwal reportedly told investigators that he had been waiting for an opportunity to target Dr Abdullah for nearly two decades. Officials said the claim is being carefully examined as part of the broader investigation.

Police are also reviewing Jamwal’s recent movements and activities leading up to the attack. Preliminary reports suggest that he earns his livelihood through rental income generated from shops he owns in the Purani Mandi area.

Authorities are further analysing how the accused managed to enter the wedding venue while carrying a firearm. Security arrangements at the function are being scrutinised to identify potential lapses that may have allowed the attacker to approach the former chief minister.

The incident has drawn strong reactions from political leaders across the Union Territory.

Ravinder Raina, senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party and former president of the party’s Jammu and Kashmir unit, condemned the attack and demanded a comprehensive investigation. He also called for a detailed review of the security arrangements surrounding Dr Abdullah.

Leaders from several other political parties also expressed concern over the incident and urged authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament from the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, strongly condemned the firing incident. He said acts of violence against political leaders are deeply disturbing and stressed that the perpetrators must face strict legal action.

Former Chief Minister and president of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mehbooba Mufti, also expressed shock over the incident and termed it a serious security lapse.

“Shocked to hear about the grave attack on Dr Farooq Abdullah. Relieved to know that he is safe and doing well. Hope the police get to the bottom of this very disturbing security lapse,” she said in a statement.

Chairman of the People’s Conference, Sajad Gani Lone, described the incident as a “cowardly firing” and expressed relief that Dr Abdullah, Surinder Choudhary and Nasir Aslam Wani escaped unharmed.

Similarly, Waheed Ur Rehman Para, a leader of the Peoples Democratic Party and a sitting MLA, termed the attack shocking and deeply unfortunate. He said violence against a senior political leader like Dr Abdullah was unacceptable and deserved the strongest condemnation.

Senior religious leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also condemned the assassination attempt. He expressed relief that Abdullah was unharmed but emphasised that the fact someone carrying a loaded weapon managed to get close enough to open fire raised serious security concerns and warranted a thorough probe.

Meanwhile, Syed Altaf Bukhari, president of the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party, said he was relieved that the veteran leader had escaped unharmed. He urged authorities to investigate whether the incident was an isolated act or something more serious.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, who was present with Dr Abdullah at the time of the attack, said the situation could have been far worse.

“Allah was merciful. Dr Sahib and all of us escaped unhurt,” Wani said. “Dr Sahib is in good spirits and is currently resting at his residence in Bhatindi in Jammu.”

As investigations continue, police officials say all aspects of the case—including the accused’s motivations, background and possible connections—are being thoroughly examined to ensure that the truth behind the attempted assassination is fully uncovered.