In Srinagar, within the bounds of Jammu and Kashmir, the erstwhile Premier of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, has articulated her apprehension on the recent accusations of maltreatment by Indian Army personnel in the Poonch area, advocating for rectitude and answerability regarding the issue.
Via a declaration disseminated on ‘X’, Mehbooba Mufti, who also holds the title of president of the Peoples Democratic Party, conveyed disillusionment over the absence of initiatives ensuing previous investigations into fabricated encounters in the area.
“We have observed how examinations and inquiries into fabricated encounters have consistently verified the blameworthiness of armed forces implicated in such instances. Regrettably, whether it be Pathribal, Machil, or Shopian fabricated encounters, no measures ensued any of the inquiries. Those accountable for the merciless slaying of innocent civilians eluded consequences,” she articulated.
She further underscored the necessity for a comprehensive inquiry into the sorrowful demise of three youthful individuals from Buffliaz to furnish justice and a sense of resolution to the mourning households.
“One can solely aspire that the recent inquiry initiated into the tragic demise of three young men from Buffliaz delivers justice & a perception of resolution to the bereaved families. Solely time will divulge. Having enunciated that, ordering an inquiry is a stride toward that trajectory.”
Mehbooba’s comments emanate in reaction to a news article unveiling the outcomes of Indian Army investigations into the fatalities of three civilians during interrogation subsequent to a terror assault in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch in December 2023, which resulted in the loss of four soldiers’ lives.
According to the report, the Army’s internal examinations brought to light serious omissions in the comportment of 7-8 personnel, encompassing officers, at assorted echelons. Sources alluded to in the report suggested that the investigations propose the three civilians perished as a consequence of alleged torment inflicted during interrogation.
The terror assault transpired on December 21 on the Mughal Road amidst Dehra Ki Gali and Bufliaz. Subsequently, eight civilians were detained from Topa Pir in Poonch district’s Bufliaz region, and five from Rajouri district’s Thanamandi area. Among those seized from Topa Pir, three succumbed to injuries sustained during the purported torment.