Search Underway for Missing Special Police Officer in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir
A Special Police Officer has gone missing in Kishtwar, prompting a search operation by security forces amid adverse weather conditions.
Kishtwar, October 15 (Daily Kiran) : Security forces have launched a search operation for a Special Police Officer (SPO) who has gone missing in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The officer, identified as 55-year-old Bashir Ahmed, was last seen leaving his post at the Trigham police picket on Wednesday morning, heading home to Wanipora Trigham with his service rifle.
Authorities reported that when Ahmed did not return home, his family alerted local officials. Investigators are exploring all possibilities regarding his disappearance. Initial reports indicate that heavy rainfall and poor weather conditions were present in the area at the time, raising concerns that he may have slipped from a steep hillside.
Multiple teams from the police and security forces are actively searching nearby forests, travel routes, and local villages for any signs of Ahmed. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain unclear, and officials are examining every aspect of the situation.
Approximately 32,000 Special Police Officers serve in Jammu and Kashmir, appointed under Section 18 of the Jammu and Kashmir Police Act, 1983. Their role is to assist regular police forces in maintaining law and order and in counter-terrorism operations.
Recent amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Police Rules, 1960, have introduced a 20% reservation in the recruitment of constables for SPOs and serving followers. Of these, 15% of positions are reserved for eligible SPOs, while 5% are for promotions of serving followers.
SPOs who have served for at least three years, excelled in sports, or hold ITI/AICTE diplomas may be considered for permanent inclusion as constables or followers, with age relaxation extending eligibility up to 40 years.
The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has clarified that SPOs do not enjoy the same constitutional protections as regular civil positions. Consequently, they are not entitled to the full safeguards under Article 311 or the benefits of regular departmental inquiry processes.
Recent judicial rulings indicate that while SPOs can be removed from service, if such actions are based on misconduct allegations or disputes regarding their records, they must be given notice and an opportunity to present their case.
