In response to the killing of former army soldier Manzoor Ahmad Wagay in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir police have detained at least 500 individuals across the valley. Wagay, 39, was shot dead by suspected militants in Behibagh village on Monday, while his wife Aaina Akhtar and her niece Saina Hameed sustained injuries. Authorities have launched widespread raids across Kulgam, Anantnag, and Shopian districts, with detainees being called in for questioning at their respective police stations. A senior police official confirmed that the operation aims to identify individuals with potential ties to militant networks and prevent further attacks. Among those detained are suspected Over Ground Workers (OGWs), former militants, and individuals with past connections to militant groups, some dating back as far as 2003. However, sources claim that many detainees have been living normal lives, raising concerns over indiscriminate arrests.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with civil society groups and political leaders calling for justice. Candlelight protests were held across the region, drawing participants from various sections of society, including law enforcement officials, activists, and schoolchildren. Protesters expressed grief over the attack, particularly the targeting of Wagay’s family members. Security officials have emphasized that such actions cross a “red line” and will not be tolerated. Meanwhile, the administration has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of civilians and bringing the perpetrators to justice. The attack follows a pattern of increased militant activity in Kashmir since 2019, with authorities linking the violence to individuals based in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Political reactions to the incident have been sharp, with leaders questioning the government’s claims of normalcy in the region. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack as a “heinous act” that must be met with strong action. J&K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra criticized the central government, arguing that its repeated assurances of a stable Kashmir contradict the ongoing violence. CPI(M) leader Mohmad Yousuf Tarigami echoed similar sentiments, stating that such acts of brutality have no place in a civilized society. The incident has reignited debates about security policies in Kashmir, as tensions remain high amid fears of further unrest.
