Handwara, April 12 (KNS): In a tragic road accident that shook the Handwara region of North Kashmir, two precious lives were lost and at least 17 individuals injured, the majority of them young female students. In response, local civil society groups have come forward with an urgent appeal to the administration—demanding advanced medical care, emotional support, and dignified compensation for the victims and their families.
In a joint statement issued today, civil society members extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for strength in this hour of immense grief. “We have lost two innocent souls. Seventeen others are battling injuries, trauma, and uncertainty. Among them are our daughters—young girls who were pursuing education and dreaming of a better future,” the statement read.
The civil society has called for immediate, specialized medical treatment for all the injured, especially those in critical condition. “These girls deserve nothing less than the best care. If treatment facilities in the district fall short, arrangements must be made to shift them to advanced medical institutes without delay—even if it means airlifting them,” the groups urged.
The statement highlighted the gendered dimension of the tragedy, stressing the need for a sensitive and holistic response.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“These are young girls, some just entering their teenage years. They are not only physically wounded but emotionally shaken. Their education, their mental health, and their dreams are now at risk. They must be given full support—from trauma counseling to academic rehabilitation.”
The civil society also strongly demanded adequate and timely compensation for the families of the deceased and financial support for the injured. “Compensation should not be symbolic—it should reflect the value of the lives lost and the needs of those left behind. Two families will never be the same again. Let the government show it truly stands with its people in pain.”
Calling for long-term structural changes, the groups urged authorities to establish well-equipped trauma care facilities in peripheral areas like Handwara and Kupwara, which often bear the brunt of infrastructural neglect.
“Time and again, we are reminded that our emergency response system is inadequate. Let this tragedy be a turning point. Let us not wait for another accident to act. Our girls need safety, our area needs attention,” they stated.
They groups appeal appealed Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister Omer Abdullah to consider the request of the society.(KNS)