The tragic deaths of three civilians in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district have triggered condemnation and widespread protests, igniting demands for justice from various political factions. The victims were discovered dead merely hours after being detained by the army for interrogation, escalating tensions in the region.
Following a major terrorist attack on the army, where four soldiers lost their lives and three were injured, over a dozen individuals from the Gujjar community were apprehended a day later. The subsequent deaths of three men—Showkat Hussain, Reyaz Ahmad, and Mohammad Safeer—under suspicious circumstances have raised serious concerns.
The army, amidst ongoing search operations to track down the attackers, detained several individuals in the Bufliaz area. The detainees were taken to a nearby military station for questioning. However, the sudden demise of three detainees prompted an uproar, alleging foul play and leading to demonstrations by political entities like the National Conference and Apni Party, demanding justice for the victims.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, in a press conference, highlighted alleged torture marks on the victims’ bodies and injuries sustained by other villagers detained for questioning. The incident has prompted the government to take swift action, announcing ₹10 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased.
Tension enveloped the area post the tragic deaths, resulting in the suspension of internet services in Poonch and Rajouri districts. Additionally, heightened security measures, including increased police and paramilitary presence, have been implemented in Bafliaz and Surankote areas to forestall potential protests. Road closures have also been enforced as a precautionary measure.
Authorities have assured that legal measures have been initiated, emphasizing the conduct of medico-legal formalities and the commencement of an investigation. Meanwhile, allegations of misconduct and torture have surfaced, purportedly necessitating the internet shutdown after a video depicting purported mistreatment went viral.
This incident is not the first instance of tension in the region. In prior occurrences, terrorist groups like the Peoples Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), linked to Lashkar-e-Toiba, have claimed responsibility for attacks. The PAFF’s use of body cameras to film encounters and propagate propaganda has further complicated the security landscape.
While counter-terrorism operations continue, the escape of terrorists amid the dense forests and challenging terrain poses a significant challenge. The hunt for the culprits responsible for the recent attack remains ongoing as security forces intensify their efforts to maintain stability in the area.
The series of events, including civilian deaths following detention, have triggered an outcry, prompting both calls for justice and heightened vigilance in the ongoing struggle against terrorism in the region.
Sources by Agencies