Stone‑hurling mob attacks Kashmir‑bound bus in Haryana, igniting communal alarm
A passenger bus traveling from Haryana toward Kashmir was struck by a barrage of stones, leaving several commuters injured and the vehicle immobilised. Valley leaders condemned the assault as a hate crime, sparking protests and a federal demand for heightened security on inter‑state routes.
The concrete rupture unfolded on a busy highway near the town of Jhajjar, where a coach carrying pilgrims to the Kashmir valley was suddenly pelted with stones by an unidentified crowd. The impact shattered windows, forced the driver to halt, and resulted in multiple injuries that required immediate medical attention. Police arrived within minutes, cordoning off the scene and transporting the wounded to the nearest hospital while attempting to restore order amid a growing swirl of anger.
Underlying tension stems from a long‑standing sense of grievance among Kashmiri communities who perceive discrimination in mainland states. Leaders in the valley swiftly labeled the incident a hate crime, urging the central government to intervene and protect religious travelers. In Haryana, local officials faced criticism for a perceived lapse in surveillance and for allowing a volatile crowd to assemble unchecked, highlighting friction between state police protocols and federal expectations of communal harmony.
The downstream casualties extend beyond the physical injuries sustained by passengers. The episode has prompted a temporary suspension of several bus services linking Delhi, Haryana, and the Kashmir region, disrupting the movement of pilgrims and traders alike. Political parties have seized upon the incident to rally support, with opposition leaders demanding a parliamentary inquiry and the ruling coalition pledging stricter enforcement of anti‑hate statutes. Analysts anticipate a review of security arrangements on long‑distance routes, potentially reshaping transport policy for the coming year.
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