Jammu, March 12 Police have launched a detailed investigation into the background of Kamal Singh Jamwal, the man accused of attempting to assassinate former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah at a wedding function here, officials said on Thursday.
Police are examining Jamwal's background, including his personal, social, and possible organizational connections, to determine the motive behind the shooting incident, they said.
Abdullah, the president of the National Conference, had a narrow escape when the accused allegedly fired at him from behind as he was leaving the wedding function in Greater Kailash on the outskirts of Jammu on Wednesday night.
Security personnel deployed with Abdullah immediately took action and foiled the assassination attempt. A licensed pistol allegedly used in the crime was recovered from Jamwal's possession.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Nasir Aslam Wani, were also with Abdullah when the incident occurred.
Jamwal, a resident of Purani Mandi in Jammu, reportedly told police that he had been waiting for an opportunity to target Abdullah for the last 20 years. Officials said police are also examining his recent activities and movements before the attack.
Senior police officers are currently questioning Jamwal, who told investigators that he earns his livelihood from rent generated by his shops.
Officials said security arrangements at the venue are being reviewed to determine how the accused managed to enter the function with a weapon.
Meanwhile, BJP leader Jahanzaib Sirwal has condemned the attack on Abdullah, saying "such acts of violence are unacceptable and have no place in a democratic and civilized society."
"Since the accused has been arrested, the authorities must ensure a thorough and transparent investigation so that the complete facts behind the attack come to light and strict action is taken in accordance with the law," Sirwal said.