Farooq Abdullah survives gun attack at Jammu wedding on Wednesday night as security fails

A 63-year-old man tried to shoot Farooq Abdullah at a wedding in Jammu on Wednesday night. This is a major security failure because the man got very close with a loaded gun.
By Newsroom | Politics, Jammu |

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A 63-year-old Jammu resident, identified as Kamal Singh Jamwal, opened fire from a licenced weapon at close range towards former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah during a wedding ceremony in the Greater Kailash area of Jammu on Wednesday night. Abdullah, also the president of the National Conference (NC), escaped unharmed. The suspect, who allegedly stated he had been planning the attack for two decades, was apprehended by individuals present at the event and is now in police custody. The incident has ignited serious concerns regarding the security arrangements for political figures in the region.

Security Lapse Amidst Personal Event

The attack occurred as Farooq Abdullah was leaving a wedding function. Videos circulating from the scene depict a chaotic moment where an individual approached Abdullah and discharged a weapon. While Abdullah maintained he initially mistook the sound for a firecracker, he later felt a sensation of heat nearby. Sources indicate that the NSG (National Security Guard) intervention played a crucial role in thwarting a more severe outcome. J&K Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and senior NC leader Nasir Aslam Wani were also in attendance at the event.

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Watch: Farooq Abdullah raises police lapse after wedding shooting scare - 1

Political Repercussions and Family Concern

Omar Abdullah, son of Farooq Abdullah and current Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, described the event as an "assassination attempt." He publicly questioned the effectiveness of security protocols, highlighting the breach that allowed an individual with a loaded firearm to get so close to his father. The incident has amplified existing anxieties about the vulnerability of political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, potentially prompting a wider re-evaluation of security measures.

Accused's Claim

The arrested individual, Kamal Singh Jamwal, reportedly confessed to a 20-year grievance, although the specific motive remains under investigation. Abdullah stated he had no prior knowledge of the accused.

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Broader Context

This attempted attack brings to the fore the persistent issue of political violence in Jammu and Kashmir, a region with a complex and often turbulent history. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges faced by public figures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who tried to attack Farooq Abdullah at the Jammu wedding on Wednesday night?
A 63-year-old man named Kamal Singh Jamwal fired a gun at Farooq Abdullah during a wedding in Greater Kailash. People at the party caught the man, and he is now in police custody.
Q: Was Farooq Abdullah hurt during the shooting incident in Jammu?
No, Farooq Abdullah was not hurt during the attack on Wednesday night. He said he first thought the sound was a firecracker, but he felt heat near him as the bullet passed.
Q: Why did Kamal Singh Jamwal shoot at Farooq Abdullah in Jammu?
The 63-year-old suspect told police he had a personal problem with Farooq Abdullah for 20 years. Police are still investigating to find the exact reason for this long-time anger.
Q: How did the security fail during the event for Farooq Abdullah in Jammu?
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the security was not good because a man with a loaded gun got very close to his father. The NSG guards had to step in quickly to stop the attacker from doing more harm.
Q: What happened to the attacker after the shooting in Greater Kailash, Jammu?
The attacker, Kamal Singh Jamwal, was grabbed by people at the wedding and then taken by the police. He used a gun that he was legally allowed to own to carry out the attack.