President of India condemns terrorist attack on Amarnath Yatris in Jammu and Kashmir

In a message to N.N. Vohra, Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, the President said, "I am deeply shocked and anguished to learn about the cowardly attack on Amarnath Yatris in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir in which a number of innocent pilgrims lost their lives and several others were injured." 

"Such senseless acts of terrorism targeting innocent lives is an attack on the democratic values of society and deserve to be universally condemned. They must be met with determination and collective action. I call upon the State Government and all concerned agencies to ensure that the guilty are brought to justice and law and order is maintained in the State. I am sure necessary steps are being taken to provide all possible aid to the bereaved families who have lost their near and dear ones as well as medical assistance to the injured," he said.

"Please convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. I also wish the injured persons speedy recovery," Mukherjee said.

At least seven Amarnath Yatra pilgrims were killed on Monday evening in yet another terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district.

According to reports, the terrorists opened fire around 8.20 PM on a bus carrying pilgrims, leaving nearly 12 people injured.

The bus, which was coming from Gujarat, was reportedly not part of the main yatra convoy.

As a result it was not registered with the shrine board, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) told media.

The CRPF covers the main yatra convoy otherwise.