Srinagar:
The deputy sarpanch of a village in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district was critically injured after he was shot by alleged terrorists on Tuesday, police said.
"Militants shot at Muhammad Yaqoob Malla of Pehlepora village, in Shopian today afternoon. The injured sarpanch has been brought here for specialized treatment," a senior police officer said.
"Searches have been started to nab the assailants," he added. The condition of the sarpanch, a National Conference member, is said to be critical.
No terrorist outfit has claimed responsibility for the attack.
The attack was the second attempt on Malla's life. Terrorists had attacked his house two years ago, injuring his brother.
An increased number of Panchayat members have been targeted in recent years for terrorists.
Earlier this month, in response to a RTI application filed by activist Raman Sharma, the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department admitted that they have not kept track of the number of Panchayat members killed by terrorists.