Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, Aug 2

Security forces have intensified a search operation in south Kashmir after two migrant labourers were killed in a suspected militant attack, prompting tighter security measures across the region.

Joint teams of the Army, J&K Police, and Central Armed Police Forces have maintained a cordon around Hablishi village, near Kilam in Kulgam district, where the attack occurred on Friday.

Armoured vehicles have been deployed and movement into and out of the area restricted as security forces conduct searches.

The attack, the first reported targeted killing of seasonal migrant workers in Kashmir since October 2024, has led to heightened security around brick kilns, construction sites, industrial units and other locations employing migrant labourers.

The victims, identified as Deepak Ratre, 24, and Bhupinder Bhaina, 25, both from Chhattisgarh, were attacked near their accommodation at a brick kiln, according to preliminary investigations. Ratre died at the scene and Bhaina later died at a Srinagar hospital.

Security agencies have yet to officially identify the perpetrators and are examining online claims by militant groups.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has ordered a review of security procedures for migrant workers and called for intelligence-based operations to track those responsible.

He also directed employers to ensure workers from outside Jammu and Kashmir were insured and properly registered with local police and district authorities.

Officials said surveillance, checkpoints, area-domination patrols and night operations had been stepped up in vulnerable areas.