Terror Angle Suspected in Kathua Killings, Protests Erupt

Three civilians were found dead in Kathua, sparking protests. Union Minister Jitendra Singh suspects a terror link, while officials call for an investigation. The killings have led to rising tensions, with demands for intensified security operations. Political leaders urged calm as the government reviewed the security situation.

The recent killing of three civilians in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district has raised serious concerns, with Union Minister Jitendra Singh pointing to a possible terror connection. The bodies of Varun Singh, 15, and his uncles, Yogesh Singh, 32, and Darshan Singh, 40, were found in the remote Malhar area on Saturday. The incident has sparked protests and a shutdown in Billawar and adjoining areas.

Singh called the killings deeply concerning, suggesting a larger conspiracy to destabilise the otherwise peaceful region. He assured that Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has been sent to Jammu to assess the situation and take necessary action to prevent such incidents in the future.

Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary also condemned the killings, highlighting rising crime in the region. He expressed concern over the attack on Bani MLA Rameshwar Singh, who was assaulted by protesters while visiting the victims' families at a hospital. Security personnel had to intervene to escort him safely. The MLA later stated that the attack was an attempt to disturb communal harmony and reaffirmed his commitment to speaking for all victims, regardless of religion.

Local BJP leaders blamed terrorists for attempting to spread fear and demanded intensified security operations to eliminate suspected militants hiding in the region. However, senior BJP leader Satish Sharma urged patience, stating that investigations were ongoing and a clear picture would emerge once post-mortem reports were available. Meanwhile, the Congress party called for a high-level probe to restore public confidence and address security concerns.

With tensions rising, the government is under pressure to take swift action to prevent further violence in the area.