In a tragic incident on Monday, former Territorial Army soldier Manzoor Ahmad Wagay was killed in a militant attack in Behibagh area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. His wife, Aaina Akhtar, 32, and his niece, Sania Hameed, 13, were also injured in the assault, which took place in broad daylight. The attack, which has left the local community in shock, underscores the ongoing security concerns in a area.
According to police and local sources, unidentified militants opened fire on Wagay and his family while they were near their home. The assailants fired at point-blank range, with Wagay sustaining fatal gunshot wounds to his stomach. His wife and niece were shot in their legs and feet. Local residents quickly rushed the victims to a nearby Army camp for initial treatment before they were transferred to the district hospital in Anantnag for further care.
Despite efforts to save him, Wagay succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His wife and niece are receiving medical attention, with their conditions said to be stable.
Wagay, who had retired from the Territorial Army, was living a peaceful life in his village, where he was known for his kindness and helpfulness. After his military service, he had taken up sheep farming to support his family. His death has devastated the local community, with residents remembering him as a humble and caring individual.
![](https://thekashpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Snapseed-3-1024x756.jpeg)
“My brother was a quiet man who only wanted to live peacefully after his retirement,” said Jahangir Wagay, the younger brother of the deceased. “I rushed to the spot when I heard he had been shot. I took him and the injured women to an Army camp, and they were later sent to the hospital. It’s heartbreaking that such a thing happened to him.”
Neighbour’s have expressed disbelief and sorrow over the attack. “Manzoor was a kind-hearted person who always helped those around him. It’s hard to believe that something so brutal could happen to someone like him,” said Haleema Bibi, a neighbour.
The attack has sparked widespread outrage, with calls for justice from the community. Rayees Ahmad Wagay, the elder brother of the deceased, expressed his grief and demanded accountability. “My brother was shot while at home. We tried to save him, but he passed away. His wife and niece are also injured. We thank to concerned police CRPF and army officials visited their home for sympathy now our demand is justice ,” he said.
Political leaders from across the region have condemned the attack. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences to Wagay’s family, saying, “I am deeply saddened by the killing of ex-serviceman Manzoor Ahmad Wagay. My heartfelt condolences to his family, and I pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the attack, calling it a “terrible act of terrorism.” “This attack is yet another example of the continuing militancy in the region,” she said, urging authorities to do more to protect civilians.
![](https://thekashpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/29d18e2c-0164-4d3a-9f37-d0fb357dbec9-1024x683.jpeg)
The Indian Army has strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an attempt to destabilize peace in Kashmir. An Army spokesperson expressed deep sorrow over Wagay’s death, stating, “The attack on a retired soldier is a cowardly attempt to disrupt peace efforts. We will continue our operations to ensure the safety of the people and bring those responsible to justice.”
Security forces have launched an investigation and are intensifying operations to track down the militants responsible for the attack. At present, no group has claimed responsibility for the shooting, but authorities believe it may be connected to the ongoing insurgency in the region.
This tragic incident highlights the persistent challenges faced by civilians in Kashmir, particularly former security personnel, who continue to be targeted by militant groups despite the region’s ongoing security operations.