Jammu, April 4: The recent encounter in Gandarbal, Jammu and Kashmir, has sparked significant outrage among local residents. Leaders from the ruling National Conference and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have raised questions regarding the incident. However, they welcomed the decision by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to initiate an investigation.
Justice Hasnain Masoodi, a legislator from the National Conference, expressed concerns during a conversation, stating, “There are doubts from all sides that this was a fake encounter, and the individual killed was an ordinary citizen.”
He added, “The Lieutenant Governor’s order for an investigation is a positive step. It is essential to uncover who orchestrated this and who is responsible. Those guilty must be punished.”
PDP legislator Agha Syed Muntazir Mehdi also welcomed the decision for an inquiry. He stated, “We appreciate the order for an investigation into the Gandarbal encounter. We will await the results of this investigation.”
He accused the authorities of routinely imprisoning innocent people in Jammu and Kashmir and committing murders under the guise of promotions or postings.
Congress legislator Irfan Hafiz Lone emphasized, “We demand that the truth be revealed. The family’s concerns must be heard. A proper investigation is necessary.”
The encounter occurred late on April 1, resulting in the death of Rashid Ahmed Mughal, a resident of Chuntwalivaar Lar. Security forces claimed that an unidentified terrorist was killed in the encounter, while the deceased’s family asserts that Rashid had no ties to terrorism or any illegal activities.
In response to the local uproar, the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department has instructed the District Magistrate of Gandarbal to conduct a fair magistrate inquiry. The investigation aims to uncover all facts and circumstances surrounding Rashid Ahmed Mughal’s death. The inquiry is to be completed within seven days, with a report to be submitted directly to the Home Department.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has ordered a magistrate inquiry into the encounter. He clarified that the investigation would be entirely impartial and thorough, ensuring justice is served while considering every aspect of the case.
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