J&K Policeman Killed in Anantnag Terror Attack During Amarnath Yatra Duty
Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi was killed in a terror attack in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, on July 22, 2026, while on Amarnath Yatra security duty. The Resistance Front claimed responsibility for the attack, which prompted a large-scale search operation and condemnation from officials.
Key Highlights
- Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi killed in Anantnag terror attack.
- Attack occurred on July 22, 2026, around Lal Chowk, Anantnag.
- Policeman was deployed for Amarnath Yatra security duty.
- The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility for the attack.
- Massive search operations and detentions followed the incident.
- Attack marks first major militant strike since April 2025 Pahalgam incident.
A Jammu and Kashmir Police Head Constable, Ashiq Hussain Qureshi, was tragically killed in a terror attack in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The incident, which took place around 12:30 pm at Lal Chowk in Anantnag, saw suspected terrorists open fire on the policeman while he was performing security duties for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.
Head Constable Qureshi, aged 35, was part of the IRP 3rd Battalion and a resident of Beerwah in central Kashmir's Budgam district. He sustained critical bullet injuries in the attack and was immediately rushed to the Government Medical College Hospital in Anantnag, but doctors declared him dead on arrival.
The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow outfit of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba, swiftly claimed responsibility for the cowardly attack through a social media post. Some reports also indicated that the United Liberation Front J&K, a group linked to TRF, took responsibility. The attack is particularly significant as it marks the first major militant strike during this year's Amarnath Yatra and the first terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir since the deadly Pahalgam attack in April 2025, which claimed 26 lives.
Following the attack, security forces immediately cordoned off the entire area and launched a massive search and cordon operation to track down the assailants. Police established mobile check-points and deployed additional reinforcements across four districts of south Kashmir – Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, and Kulgam. In a wide-ranging crackdown, police and security agencies detained approximately 2,000 suspected Over Ground Workers (OGWs) of militant networks across the Kashmir Valley for questioning and verification. These operations targeted individuals and networks believed to be providing logistical, financial, communication, transport, shelter, and other support to militant organizations.
The incident occurred in a bustling market area of Lal Chowk, Anantnag, further highlighting the audacity of the attackers. Unconfirmed CCTV footage purportedly showing the attacker, carrying an AK rifle under a white cloth, shooting the policeman from behind and then fleeing through the busy market, circulated online. Police have urged the public not to share such videos and warned of strict legal action against those who violate this advisory.
The attack drew widespread condemnation from political leaders. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the "cowardly attack" and offered his heartfelt condolences to the family of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi. He stated that he had spoken with Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat to review the situation, affirming that the "heinous act will not go unpunished" and that the J&K Police and security forces would bring those responsible to justice. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed his deep sadness and unequivocally condemned the attack, calling it the ultimate sacrifice. Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Special DGP Javid Mujtaba Gilani, and IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi visited the attack site to conduct a first-hand assessment of the situation and supervise the manhunt.
The attack has reignited concerns about the security situation in the region, particularly during the Amarnath Yatra, which had recently achieved a historic milestone with over three lakh devotees offering prayers. The 57-day pilgrimage, which began on July 3 and is set to conclude on August 28, has extensive security arrangements along both the traditional Nunwan-Pahalgam and shorter Baltal routes. This incident underscores the persistent challenges faced by security forces in maintaining peace and order in Jammu and Kashmir.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the policeman killed in the Anantnag terror attack?
Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi of the IRP 3rd Battalion was killed in the terror attack in Anantnag. He was a resident of Beerwah, Budgam district.
When and where did the terror attack occur?
The terror attack took place on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, around 12:30 pm at Lal Chowk in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir.
What was the policeman's duty at the time of the attack?
Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi was deployed on security duty for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra when he was attacked by terrorists.
Which terrorist group claimed responsibility for the attack?
The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Toiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.
What were the immediate actions taken by security forces after the attack?
Immediately after the attack, security forces cordoned off the area, launched a massive search operation, and detained thousands of suspected Over Ground Workers (OGWs) across the Kashmir Valley to track down the assailants.