Mehbooba Mufti demands action against soldiers over civilian torture in J&K’s Kishtwar
Srinagar, Nov 22, KNT: Peoples’ Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti has urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to take swift action against Army personnel accused of ill-treating civilians during anti-militancy operations in Kishtwar district. The alleged incident occurred on November 20 in the Mughal Maidan area, where five civilians were reportedly tortured by soldiers, resulting in injuries.
Mehbooba Mufti expressed her concern over the allegations, stating that they evoke memories of the disturbing events that took place in Bafliaz Surankote earlier this year. She said that the victims, all from Kuath village, were summoned to the Army camp for questioning and subjected to extreme physical torture.
She alleged that the victims were severely injured and unable to walk, requiring hospitalization. She emphasized the need for accountability and urged the Union Territory government to take swift action against those involved to prevent such human rights violations from recurring.
Notably, the Army’s White Knight Corps has already launched an investigation into the matter, acknowledging reports of alleged ill-treatment of civilians during the operation. The Corps stated that necessary follow-up action will be ensured once the facts are ascertained. [KNT]