Srinagar, July 17: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Friday urged the Jammu and Kashmir administration to swiftly investigate the killing of a civilian in Bhaderwah and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that a youth identified as Arif Hussain was killed in police firing in Bhaderwah, Doda district, on Thursday night. Officials stated that the civilian allegedly attempted to snatch a policeman’s service rifle.
Mufti, a former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed her deep concern over the reports emerging from Doda. She highlighted that the civilian was allegedly stabbed and subsequently shot dead by security forces. The incident was followed by an internet shutdown across the district, adding to the growing unease.
The PDP chief stated on the social media platform X that the administration must act with promptness to establish the facts surrounding the incident and ensure accountability. Mufti further articulated her worry that Jammu and Kashmir should not be permitted to regress into a state where accusations of cow smuggling are used as justification for mob violence and the targeted killing of Muslims.
According to official sources, a religious preacher has been taken into custody in connection with the event. During the incident, three personnel from the Special Operations Group (SOG) sustained injuries. The circumstances leading to the firing and the civilian’s death are currently under investigation by the authorities.
The incident has sparked calls for a thorough and transparent inquiry to ascertain the sequence of events and to address any potential lapses in procedure or excessive use of force. The administration has been urged to provide clear information to the public regarding the investigation’s progress and the measures being taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The Chenab Times News Desk