The body of a 22-year-old man, who disappeared nearly three weeks ago after allegedly jumping into a stream while being pursued by suspected cow vigilantes, was recovered on Saturday in Ramban district. The recovery marks the end of an extensive, multi-agency search operation that spanned treacherous terrain and strong currents.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the deceased has been identified as Tanveer Ahmad Chopan, son of Abdul Salam Chopan, a resident of Mundkhal Pogal. He was reported missing on April 12. Sources indicate that Chopan had been travelling from Jammu with a milch cow and two calves when he was allegedly intercepted near Makarkoot, close to the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
According to preliminary reports, Chopan was chased by a group of individuals travelling in two vehicles near Digdool. Fearing apprehension or harm, he reportedly leapt into the Nallah Bishlari, a stream known for its swift currents, and had not been seen since. The incident sparked an immediate and large-scale search operation involving local police, volunteers, and later, specialised teams.
The search operation, which commenced soon after Chopan’s disappearance, continued relentlessly for 20 days. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Army, and multiple Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) from Ramban, Ramsoo, and Khari, along with NGOs such as Banihal Volunteers, Red Cross Banihal, and Doda-based Ababeel, participated in the effort. The challenging geography of the area, including steep banks and powerful water flow, complicated rescue efforts.
The body of Tanveer Ahmad Chopan was finally spotted in the Nallah Bishlari near Digdool on Saturday. Rescue teams were able to retrieve the body, which was found in a decomposed state. It has been transferred to a local hospital for medico-legal formalities, including an autopsy, to determine the exact cause of death.
Authorities have confirmed that a case has been registered in connection with the incident. As part of the ongoing investigation, police have arrested four individuals identified as Surjeet Singh, Sandeep Singh, Digvijay Singh, and Kewal Singh. All accused are reportedly residents of Ramban town and its adjoining Seri areas.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to conduct a thorough probe into the circumstances leading to Chopan’s death. The SIT is headed by SDPO Banihal, Surinder Singh Biloria. Officials stated that the investigation is continuing, and further details are expected to emerge as the SIT gathers evidence and statements.
The recovery of the body and the ongoing investigation have caused significant grief and outrage among the victim’s family and the local community. The family has alleged that the harassment and chase by vigilante groups directly led to Tanveer Ahmad Chopan’s death. They have appealed for a fair and impartial investigation and have demanded stringent action against all those found responsible for the incident.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
