MLA Gurez escapes unhurt in attack on rally, several injured

Irfan Tramboo

SRINAGAR, Oct 30: Over a dozen people were injured after MLA Gurez Nazir Ahmad Khan’s rally was allegedly attacked by a mob in the Gujran area of Tulail, in North Kashmir’s Bandipora.
While the MLA managed to exit the area safely, reports indicated that several people sustained injuries and numerous vehicles were damaged in the attack.
Khan told Excelsior that the incident occurred last evening, with supporters and individuals linked to his opponent in the area attacking his rally, resulting in serious injuries to four of his men.

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“Stones were thrown at us. My vehicle was also damaged. They wanted to kill me, but the police evacuated me. We did not do anything to provoke them, and everything we’ve said is on record. The local SHO was with us,” he said.
The MLA added that even the police vehicle he was transferred too came under attack. “I managed to exit safely, but these people were affiliated with BJP’s Faqeer Muhammad Khan.”
Officials reported that the injured were taken to a hospital, with three of them referred to Srinagar for further treatment. A case has been registered under relevant legal sections, and further investigation is underway.
As clashes erupted, police arrived at the scene, using smoke shells to disperse the mob and bring the situation under control.
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Khan, calling the attack “hooliganism,” explained that he was visiting several areas to thank people following his victory. He cautioned that such incidents could worsen the situation in Gurez.
“I spoke with the SSP, who assured me that the culprits will be arrested. While incidents like these could escalate the situation, I have kept my workers calm. I hope the administration will take necessary steps,” he said.
DDC Tulail, Ajaz Ahmad Khan, who is the son of BJP leader, condemned the incident, accusing Nazir Ahmad Khan of politicizing religion and engaging in divisive politics.
“He has been using religion for political gain, provoking BJP supporters, especially since his win. He says that those who voted for BJP have become infidels,” Khan claimed.
Referring to the previous evening’s incident, he alleged that MLA Gurez’s supporters had attacked their homes and harassed their women.
“They attacked our homes in Gujran, abused the women, and made lewd gestures, which led to clashes. He has done this repeatedly. In 2007, he created divisions between Gurez and Tulail; he has disturbed the peace in the area; we had never witnessed such incidents before,” he said.