APSCC Decries Delay in Justice for Chattisinghpora Massacre Victims
Srinagar, Mar 20, KNT: The All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) has expressed disappointment over the prolonged delay in justice for the families of 35 Sikhs who were massacred in Chattisinghpora, Anantnag, on March 20, 2000.
Justice Eludes Families Even After 25 Years
APSCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina lamented that despite the passage of 25 years, no significant progress has been made in identifying and punishing those responsible for the killings. He warned that the continued delay has deepened the sense of disillusionment among the Sikh community in Kashmir.
Demand for a Fresh Probe
Highlighting the need for a thorough investigation, Raina emphasized that the Chattisinghpora massacre was followed by further bloodshed, including the killing of 15 people from the majority community. He called for an impartial probe into the sequence of events to ensure justice for all affected families.
Doubts Over Government’s Claims
Raina pointed out that locals had contested the government’s claim of having killed five militants allegedly involved in the Sikh massacre. He stressed that a professional and transparent investigation was essential to bring the real perpetrators to justice.
Brakpora Killings Also Need Attention
Expressing sympathy with the families of those killed in Brakpora, where protestors were fired upon while demanding justice for a fake encounter, the APSCC Chairman urged the government to expedite the probe to uncover the truth.
Calls for a Fresh Investigation
Raina noted that the police have failed to provide conclusive evidence linking those killed in the alleged fake encounter to the Chattisinghpora massacre. He demanded a new probe into the incident, allowing the Pandian Commission to further investigate, as both cases are interlinked.
Bill Clinton’s Reaction to the Massacre
Recalling international condemnation, Raina mentioned that the massacre was denounced by then U.S. President Bill Clinton, who later termed it one of the most unfortunate incidents of his presidency. He urged the Government of India to take concrete steps to identify and punish the culprits behind the massacre.
