Jammu (Gurpreet Singh): Authorities have launched an extensive investigation into the background of a man accused of attempting to shoot former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah during a wedding function in Jammu. Officials said the suspect allegedly told investigators that he had been waiting for nearly 20 years for an opportunity to target the veteran political leader.
The incident took place on Wednesday night at a marriage event in the Greater Kailash area on the outskirts of Jammu. According to police, Abdullah—who also serves as president of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference—was leaving the venue when the accused reportedly fired from behind.
Security personnel accompanying the senior leader reacted quickly, preventing what could have been a fatal attack. Officials confirmed that a licensed pistol believed to have been used in the incident was seized from the suspect at the scene.
The accused has been identified as Kamal Singh Jamwal, a 63-year-old resident of the Purani Mandi locality in Jammu. Investigators are now examining his past activities, personal background, and any potential organisational connections that might explain the motive behind the attack.
Police sources said Jamwal has told investigators that he makes a living through rental income from shops he owns. Officers are also reviewing his recent movements and contacts to determine whether the attack was planned alone or involved any outside influence.
At the time of the incident, Jammu and Kashmir’s Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and adviser to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Nasir Aslam Wani, were reportedly present alongside Farooq Abdullah.
Security arrangements at the wedding venue are also under scrutiny, with officials trying to determine how the suspect managed to enter the function carrying a firearm.
Reacting to the incident, Jahanzaib Sirwal of the Bharatiya Janata Party condemned the attack, calling it an unacceptable act of violence.
He urged authorities to ensure a comprehensive and transparent investigation so that all facts surrounding the incident are revealed and appropriate action is taken against those responsible.
Police officials said the interrogation of the suspect is ongoing and further details may emerge as the investigation progresses.
