Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly condemned the brutal murder of a young preteen girl in Budgam, describing the incident as “shocking and deeply distressing.”
Expressing profound grief over the tragedy, the chief minister condemned the heinous act in the strongest possible terms and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, an official press release said.
“May she find a place in Jannat,” the chief minister said while expressing solidarity with the grieving family.
The chief minister said the incident should serve as a moment of serious introspection for society at large. “While the appropriate agencies inquire into the circumstances of her murder, it’s also fitting that we reflect on where we as a society are headed when our young children are not safe,” he said.
“I condemn this brutal attack without reservation or condition and send my sympathies to her family,” he added.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to justice, the chief minister assured that all necessary support would be extended to the investigating agencies to ensure that those found guilty are given exemplary punishment in accordance with the law.
Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti also expressed deep shock and anguish over the brutal murder of the minor girl, terming the incident heartbreaking and a grim reminder of the growing vulnerability of children and women in society.
Taking to X, Mufti tweeted, “Devastated to hear about the cold blooded murder of a 12 year old girl in Budgam. The allegations of rape just make it all the more shocking, disconcerting & unsettling. One shudders at the thought if our children are really safe.”
In a statement the PDP president said the horrific incident has shaken the conscience of every Kashmiri. She demanded a swift, transparent and time-bound investigation to ensure exemplary punishment for those involved.
“The barbaric killing of an innocent child has left the entire society devastated. No words can ease the pain and trauma suffered by the family. Such incidents strike at the very moral fabric of our society and demand collective introspection alongside strict legal action,” she said.
Mufti urged the administration to conduct the investigation in a professional and impartial manner and ensure that justice is delivered without delay. She also called for stronger mechanisms to safeguard children and women, saying that rising incidents of violence and abuse cannot be allowed to become a disturbing new normal.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara, Sajad Lone expressed the shock over the incident.
“Deeply shaken by the horrific murder of a 12 year old girl in Budgam. The allegations surrounding this crime make it even more painful & disturbing. No family should ever have to endure such unimaginable grief,” Lone posted on X.
He further write that in this moment of immense sorrow, my heartfelt condolences & prayers are with the bereaved family. May they find strength & sabr to bear this irreparable loss, adding “the perpetrators of such brutality must face the strictest punishment under the law”.
