The driver of the bus, Sheikh Saleem Gafoor from Valsad in Gujarat, as per police showed bravery after he drove the bus even after militants were raining bullets on the vehicle. Seven yatris were killed and 19 others were injured in the militant attack on the bus.
He was awarded rupees one lakh under Chief Ministers Special Award of Bravery on the eve of Independence Day.
Earlier, governor NN Vohra, who is also chairman of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), announced a special reward of Rs 2 lakh to the bus driver. He also received number of awards.