Kashmiri Pandit shot dead in Shopian, Kashmir Freedom Fighter group claims responsibility

They said militants fired at Puran Krishan Bhat of Chouwdary Gund Shopian near his residence.

"He was shot while he was in orchard which is more than half a km from his house," a security official said.

He was immediately shifted to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Soon after the incident, security forces cordoned the area and launched a manhunt to trace the attackers.

"Terrorists fired upon a civilian (minority) Puran Krishan Bhat while he was on his way to an orchard in Chowdari Gund, Shopian. He was immediately shifted to a hospital for treatment where he succumbed. Area cordoned off. Search in progress," a Police tweet said.

Sujit Kumar, Deputy Inspector General of Police Central Kashmir, who is also the in charge of South Kashmir Range said the Kashmir Freedom Fighter (KFF) group, the proxy name of a militant outfit, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

He said initial investigation has suggested that one militant was behind the attack.

"There was security, our guard, for this cluster. If any security lapse is found on part of the security guards and any official in charge of the area, definitely action will be taken," he said.

Deputy commissioner Shopian, Sachin Kumar said the body of the deceased will be sent to Jammu for last rites.

The latest killing has been widely condemned.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said the perpetrators and those aiding and abetting terrorists will be severely punished.

"Attack on Puran Krishan Bhat by terrorists in Shopian is a dastardly act of cowardice. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. I assure the people that the perpetrators and those aiding and abetting terrorists will be severely punished," Sinha tweeted.

The National Conference condemned the "brazen and cowardly attack."

"I unequivocally condemn this attack in which Pooran Krishan Bhat has lost his life. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family. May Pooran Ji's soul rests in peace," NC vice president Omar Abdullah said.

The PDP alleged that the LG has turned a blind eye to the plight of Kashmiri Pandits.

"While KP's have been protesting for last five months demanding relocation after Rahul Bhat's killing,LG admin kept turning a blind eye to their plight. Today yet another KP, Puran Krishan was shot dead in Shopian. Thoughts,prayers are with the bereaved family," the party said in a tweet.

BJP General Secretary Ashok Koul said: "These anti-national elements by killing civilians will never be successful."

"These things will not be tolerated anymore as these attacks are aimed to disturb the peace in the region," he said.

CPI(M), Apni Party and Peoples Conference too condemned the killing.

Jammu Kashmir Workers Party President Mir Junaid condemned the killing and demanded that the real perpetrators behind the attacks on minorities in the UnionTerritory be named. 

(With UNI inputs)