Anantnag: The tragic death of Adil, a 25-year-old Kashmiri labourer, has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond. He was killed while attempting to disarm terrorists during the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Adil, the eldest son in a family of seven, was known for his hard work and devotion to his family. He earned a modest living, approximately Rs 300 per day, by driving horses and undertaking various labour jobs.
His daily routine involved providing for his parents and younger siblings. On the day of his death, he was working when a terrorist attack unfolded. Despite the imminent danger, Adil bravely attempted to disarm the terrorists, preventing further bloodshed and saving the lives of several individuals. Eyewitnesses have reported that the terrorists explicitly targeted individuals based on their religion, but Adil, himself a Muslim, acted without hesitation to protect those at risk, including Hindu tourists. The incident underscores the complex and often violent reality of life in Kashmir, where sectarian violence continues to claim innocent lives.
The account provided by Adil’s family is filled with grief and anger. They describe the devastating impact his death has had on their lives, leaving them struggling financially and emotionally. His mother recounts receiving the news of his death via a phone call at 10 pm, the details relayed in a torrent of anguish and disbelief. The family’s description of the attack paints a grim picture of the brutality encountered. Adil suffered three gunshot wounds to the chest and one to the neck. Their appeals for justice are heartfelt and resonating.
The family demands that the perpetrators face the same punishment they inflicted upon Adil. The incident has also sparked wider debates on the state of the conflict in Kashmir and the need for an end to the violence. Adil’s selflessness and courageous actions amidst such violence stand as a testament to his character and a stark reminder of the human cost of ongoing conflicts.