The family of Chhattisgarh labourer Deepak Ratrey, who was killed in a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district, has alleged that the attackers questioned him about his caste and community before shooting him dead. Deepak was among two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh who were killed in the attack at a brick kiln on Friday. According to his family members, Deepak had moved to Jammu and Kashmir around a year ago in search of work and was employed at a brick kiln to support his family. They said he was the sole earning member of the household and had been working away from home to fund the construction of his house.

Deepak is survived by his wife, a one-year-old son, his widowed mother, and a disabled brother. His father had died nearly a decade ago, leaving Deepak with the responsibility of supporting the family. The news of his death has left relatives and villagers in deep shock. Another migrant labourer from Chhattisgarh’s Sarangarh district, identified as Bhupendra, was also killed in the same terrorist attack. The incident has triggered condemnation, with leaders and officials describing the targeting of migrant workers as a serious act of violence. The family has appealed to the government for financial assistance and requested that Deepak’s mortal remains be brought back to his native village so that the final rites can be performed.

They have also sought support during this difficult period following the loss of their family member. Following the incident, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Rupendra Patel and other administrative officials visited Deepak’s family and assured them of all possible assistance. Officials said they were coordinating with authorities in Jammu and Kashmir to complete the formalities for bringing back the body. Speaking to ANI, SDM Rupendra Patel said that officials had spoken with the family and were in contact with the government to ensure they received assistance according to established rules. He added that authorities were continuously monitoring the situation and supporting the grieving relatives.

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“I just spoke with the family. The body is currently in Jammu and Kashmir, and we are in contact with the authorities there to facilitate the process. Discussions are currently ongoing regarding the arrangements for the same,” Patel said. The attack has renewed concerns over the safety of migrant workers employed in Jammu and Kashmir. Many labourers from different parts of the country travel to the region for employment opportunities in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and brick kilns.

Authorities are investigating the attack and efforts are underway to identify those responsible. The killing of the two workers has drawn widespread condemnation, with calls for strict action against those involved in the violence. For Deepak’s family, the immediate priority remains bringing his remains back home and receiving support after the loss of their primary earning member. The incident has highlighted the vulnerability of migrant workers and the need for stronger security measures to protect civilians working away from their native states.

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