Jammu: Police have begun an in-depth investigation after a man allegedly opened fire at senior Jammu and Kashmir leader Farooq Abdullah during a wedding ceremony in Jammu, officials confirmed on Thursday. The accused reportedly told investigators that he had been waiting for nearly two decades for an opportunity to target the veteran politician.
The incident occurred late Wednesday evening at a marriage function in the Greater Kailash locality on the outskirts of the city. According to officials, Abdullah, who heads the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, had just begun leaving the venue when the suspect allegedly fired a shot from behind.
Security personnel assigned to the leader responded quickly and managed to stop the attacker before further harm could occur. Officers also recovered a licensed pistol believed to have been used in the attempt.
The man taken into custody has been identified as Kamal Singh Jamwal, 63, a resident of the Purani Mandi area of Jammu. Investigators are now examining his personal history, financial situation, and possible affiliations to determine the exact motive behind the act.
Police sources said Jamwal has told officers that he earns his living through rent from several shops he owns. Authorities are also looking into his recent movements and contacts in the days leading up to the incident to understand whether he acted alone or had any assistance.
At the time of the attack, Jammu and Kashmir’s Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and adviser to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Nasir Aslam Wani, were present with Farooq Abdullah at the function.
Security arrangements at the venue are also under review as officials try to determine how the suspect was able to enter the gathering with a firearm.
Meanwhile, Jahanzaib Sirwal of the Bharatiya Janata Party condemned the attack and called for a full and transparent inquiry. He stated that acts of violence have no place in a democratic society and urged authorities to ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly investigated.
Police said questioning of the suspect is continuing and additional details may emerge as the probe progresses.
