Tragic Loss in Bandipora: Community Mourns Young Mother After Grenade Explosion

A Heartbreaking Incident

On November 3, 2024, a devastating grenade explosion at Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in Srinagar shattered the lives of many, including Abida Kounsar, a 45-year-old mother from Naidkhai, Sumbal in Bandipora district. The explosion occurred during a bustling shopping day, when families were out purchasing essentials and preparing for the winter months. Abida was among the twelve civilians injured in the attack, which was reportedly carried out by militants targeting security forces in the area.

Witnesses described a scene of chaos as the grenade detonated, sending shards of metal and debris flying through the air. Abida suffered critical injuries when a splinter struck her forehead, penetrating her brain. Despite receiving immediate medical attention and being rushed to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery, her condition remained grave. After days of battling for her life on ventilator support, Abida succumbed to her injuries on November 12, leaving her family and community engulfed in sorrow.

Don’t Cry, She is a Martyr

As news of Abida’s passing spread throughout Naidkhai, an overwhelming sense of grief descended upon the village. The moment her body arrived home, the air was filled with anguished cries and wails from family and neighbors who gathered to pay their respects. “Don’t cry; she is a martyr,” shouted Waseem Raja, Abida’s brother, as he struggled to find solace amid the overwhelming grief. His voice trembled with emotion as he called upon local authorities and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to ensure proper rehabilitation for Abida’s three young children—ten-year-old Zuhair, his younger brother Hafi, aged seven, and their sister Aubihiyah, just four years old.

The local community expressed their fears and frustrations over the ongoing violence in Kashmir. “What was her crime? She just went to buy winter clothes for her children,” lamented Kulsuma, a close friend of Abida’s. Villagers gathered to share their sorrow and anger, questioning how long such tragedies would continue to plague their lives. “How long will these bullets and grenades keep snatching our loved ones?” they asked, reflecting a collective sense of helplessness that has become all too familiar in recent years.

A Family Left Behind

Abida Kounsar’s death leaves behind three young children who now face an uncertain future without their mother. Ten-year-old Zuhair poignantly shared his heartbreak: “Our Mumma is no more with us. She wanted to buy me a winter jacket.” His innocent words highlight not only the personal loss but also the impact of violence on the lives of innocent children who are left to navigate a world filled with grief and uncertainty.

The family had always been close-knit; Abida was known for her nurturing spirit and dedication to her children. Neighbors recalled how she would often organize small gatherings for local children, ensuring they felt loved and supported. Now, those same children are left without their beloved caretaker. During Abida’s funeral, attended by hundreds of mourners from across the region, the atmosphere was heavy with sorrow. Women wept openly as they remembered her warmth and kindness.

Terrorism is A Menace

In the aftermath of this tragedy, local leaders have condemned the attack and called for urgent action to ensure safety in Kashmir. Iltija Mufti from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed outrage over the ongoing violence that continues to claim innocent lives. “These killings must stop,” she urged during a press conference, emphasizing that each life lost is not merely a statistic but a devastating blow to families and communities.

Community members echoed these sentiments during discussions held in the days following Abida’s death. Many expressed their frustration with government assurances regarding security measures that seem ineffective against such attacks. “We live in constant fear,” said Aamina Begum, another local resident. “Every time we step out for basic necessities, we wonder if we will return home safely.”

As Kashmir continues to grapple with conflict and violence, Abida Kounsar’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of such turmoil—a cost that resonates deeply within every grieving heart in Naidkhai and beyond. The community stands united in mourning while calling for an end to the cycle of violence that has brought so much pain into their lives.

NGO’s Providing Assistance to Abida’s Children

In light of this tragedy, there have been calls for increased support for victims’ families affected by violence in Kashmir. Local NGOs have begun mobilizing resources to provide assistance to Abida’s children and others like them who have been left vulnerable due to ongoing conflict. Efforts are underway to ensure that these children receive not only emotional support but also educational opportunities that can help them build a brighter future despite their current hardships.

As residents of Naidkhai gather to remember Abida Kounsar—her laughter echoing in their memories—they also pledge to advocate for peace and justice in Kashmir. They hope that one day soon, no mother will have to face such a tragic fate while simply trying to care for her family.