Unidentified gunmen shot dead a civilian in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara region on Saturday amid heightened tension in the Valley over the death of 26 people, mostly non-Muslim tourists, in a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam town on April 22.

The deceased person was identified as a 45-year-old Ghulam Rasool Magray.

According to reports, the gunmen barged into his home and gunned him down.

Critically wounded Ghulam Rasool Magray was rushed from his house located in Kani Khas area to the District Hospital, Handwara, for treatment.

After receiving initial treatment, he was referred to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in Srinagar. He later succumbed to his injuries.

Officials told The Indian Express Magray was hit in the abdomen and wrist.

An investigation has been initiated into the incident.

Indian security forces have initiated a massive crackdown across the Kashmir Valley since the Pahalgam attack occurred last week.

In an attempt to curb terrorism and dismantle its infrastructure, security forces have bombed the houses of several terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir in the past few days.

Baisaran Attack

Jammu and Kashmir had attracted a large number of tourists ever since the Centre scrapped Article 370 in 2019.

On April 22, Pahalgam town's Baisaran Valley echoed with the sounds of gunshots when terrorists shot dead 26 people, mostly non-Muslim tourists, marking one of the deadliest strikes i the Valley in the past five years.

Survivors said the gunmen asked some victims about their religion and demanded they recite Islamic verses. Those who failed or hesitated were shot in the head.

Security officials said at least five terrorists split into smaller groups and attacked three zones in the meadow.

Lasting under ten minutes, the assault left 26 dead, including 25 tourists and a local pony operator.

Two security personnel — from the Navy and the Intelligence Bureau — were also killed.