Army begins probe into ‘custodial torture’ of four civilians in Kishtwar
The Army has initiated a probe into the alleged “torture” of four civilians by its personnel in Kishtwar following demands for strict action from politicians in Jammu and Kashmir. Officials stated that the Army is taking the allegations “seriously”.
Political parties across the region have reacted strongly to the claims made by residents of Kuath village in Kishtwar’s Chas area, who alleged they were beaten by Army personnel. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has demanded a transparent investigation and court-martial for those found guilty.
The Nagrota-based XV Corps has already announced an inquiry into the allegations of torture inflicted on the villagers. A senior official confirmed to The Tribune on Saturday that the inquiry is underway and that the Army’s top brass is closely monitoring the situation.
As part of the investigation, Army personnel allegedly involved in the incident have been questioned by senior officers, the official said. “The personnel of the concerned Army unit were summoned and questioned about the incident,” the official said, adding that action will be taken against anyone found guilty.
According to the allegations, the victims received a phone call on Wednesday morning instructing them to report to an Army camp. The call was reportedly made with regard to an investigation into the November 7 killing of two Village Defence Guards (VDGs) by terrorists. A Special Forces JCO was also killed during a search operation related to the incident on November 10.
Since the allegations surfaced, regional leaders have been vocal in demanding accountability. Payare Lal Sharma, the MLA from Inderwal constituency where the village is located, told The Tribune that senior Army officials have assured him that appropriate action will be taken against those found guilty. “The injured are receiving treatment and their condition is stable. I am in regular contact with Army officials, and they have assured us of full cooperation,” he said.
Senior BJP leader Tariq Hussain Keen also commented on the incident, stating that the party leadership has raised the matter with the authorities. “We believe that strict action should be taken against anyone involved in wrongdoing, but innocent people should not be harassed,” he said.
The Kishtwar incident follows a similar case in Poonch last year, where three civilians were allegedly picked up and “tortured” to death in Topa Pir village. A court of inquiry was ordered in that case, leading to the transfer of some senior officials from the area.
Army personnel questioned
- Army initiates probe into the alleged "torture" of four civilians by its personnel in Kishtwar
- As part of the investigation, Army personnel allegedly involved in the incident have been questioned by senior officers, the official said
- “The personnel of the Army unit concerned were summoned and questioned about the incident,” the official said
- Inderwal MLA Payare Lal Sharma said senior Army officials had assured him that appropriate action would be taken against those found guilty
- Senior BJP leader Tariq Hussain Keen stated the party leadership had raised the matter with the authorities
