Kashmir: 42 CRPF troopers martyred, several injured in a terrorist attack

Srinagar: At least 42 CRPF troopers were martyred, while over 60 were reported injured in a terror attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama's Awantipora on Thursday afternoon.

The terrorists detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) planted in a car, which was parked on the road from where 70 vehicles carrying CRPF troopers were to pass. As soon as the convoy got near the car the terrorists triggered the blast and opened fire on the vehicles, which were going towards Srinagar from Jammu.

Police identified the terrorist as Adil Ahmad from Kakapora in Pulwama. He joined the Jaish-Mohammed in 2018.

An NIA team with suitable forensic component is leaving for Kashmir on Thursday morning to assist the Jammu & Kashmir Police in forensic evaluation of the spot. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

The blast was so powerful that several soldiers were thrown several metres away from the bus which was completely shattered and wrecked.

The Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the IED blast targeting the bus carrying CRPF personnel, said the officials.

President Ram Nath Kovind: I strongly condemn terrorist attack in Pulwama. Thoughts and prayers with families of martyrs and wishing an early recovery to those injured.

Narendra Modi: Attack on CRPF personnel in Pulwama is despicable. I strongly condemn this dastardly attack. Sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain. The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of the brave martyrs. May the injured recover quickly.

Rajnath Singh: "The attack was carried out by Pakistan backed Jaish-e-Mohammed. I assure the country a strong reply will be given. The nation pays tribute to the brave jawans who were martyred"

CRPF DG RR Bhatnagar: Senior officers have reached the spot;. Investigation is underway. Injured being taken care of. There were 2500 personnel in the convoy.

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Randeep Surjewala, Congress: We strongly condemn this cowardly attack. We extend condolences to the kin of the jawans who were martyred. This is the 18th big terror attack in the last 5 years under this Modi Govt. When will the 56-inch chest reply?

Mehbooba Mufti: I don't have enough words to condemn this attack. Border skirmishes and surgical strikes are leading to nothing. NDA Govt and all political parties must come together and reach a solution to end this bloodshed

Arun Jaitley: Attack on CRPF in Pulwama, J&K is cowardice & condemnable act of terrorists. Nation salutes martyrs & we stand united with families of martyrs. We pray for speedy recovery of the injured. Terrorists will be given unforgettable lesson for their heinous act.