Killing of retd SSP condemned by several organizations, leaders

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Dec 24: Several political, social and trade organizations and their leaders today condemned the cowardly killing of a retired police officer (SSP) inside a mosque in Baramulla district when he was giving pre-dawn ‘Azaan’.
Condemning the incident, BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh said it was not just a cowardly act of terrorists but was also an insult and disgrace to the religious place. He said it was a shame that terrorists fired on Mohammed Shafi Mir, a former SSP, during Azan in the mosque which showed how desperate they are. Attacking a person in the place of worship was the most heinous crime for which the terrorists will have to pay heavily, Chugh added.
All Parties United Morcha (APUM) has strongly condemned the targeting killing of retired SSP today and recent terror attack on Army personnel. A joint meeting of senior leaders of different political and social organizations was held here today under the chairmanship former MP Sheikh Abdul Rehman (Ex-MP). The meeting expressed serious concern over the recent targeted attacks on the army and security forces leading to loss of several precious lives. They expressed deep sympathies with the aggrieved families and asked the Government to deal with the serious threat of terrorism and ensure safety of people and security of jawans.
Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress (JKPCC) strongly condemned the targeting killing of former SSP in Baramulla and termed it as a dastardly act against humanity. Expressing grave concern over the terror attacks and loss of precious lives, JKPCC senior vice president Ravinder Sharma said that the recent spurt in terror activities is indicative of the grim situation on ground contrary to Government claims of normalcy. The Government should adopt more effective measures to counter the serious threat of terrorism, he added.
Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari expressed shock and grief over the brutal killing of retired SSP Mohammad Shafi Mir. In a statement issued here, Bukhari this is one of the most brutal acts of terrorism that people fall prey to every now and then in J&K. Mindless violence of this nature must be condemned by everyone in the strongest possible terms. I urge the security agencies to swiftly nab the killers of Mohammad Shafi Mir Sahib to ensure they are brought to justice.” He also extended condolences to the family and loved ones of Mohammad Shafi Mir.
Condemning the incident, Shiv Sena J&K unit chief Manish Sahni said that terrorists have once again carried out their nefarious plans in Baramulla district. “This is the first incident of its kind in the Valley. The terrorists crossed all limits and opened fire on a person praying ‘Azaan’, proving that terrorism has no religion,” Sahni said and expressed his condolences to the bereaved family.
Former general secretary of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu, Gaurav Gupta said, “Such acts of violence have no place in our society, and they only serve to divide us.” He expressed deep sorrow and strong condemnation over this coward killing. “My thoughts are with the family of the brave officer who lost his life in this senseless act, and I stand in solidarity with the community during this difficult time,” he added and emphasized the need for unity and peace in the wake of such violence.
Chairman of Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) and former Minister Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen expressed sorrow and grief over the incident. He termed the dastardly act as an unforgiveable crime adding that all the religions including Isam, have strictly prohibited killing of innocent human beings. He expressed his hear felt sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul. He urged the Government to take adequate measures for ensuring security of civilians.