Allegations of torture involving four civilians have emerged from the Chas area of Kishtwar, following a recent terrorist attack that resulted in the death of a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army and injuries to three soldiers. The civilians in question are reported to be suspects believed to have sheltered terrorists responsible for the earlier abduction and subsequent killing of two members from the Village Defence Group (VDG).
In response to these allegations, the White Knight Corps of the Indian Army stated that an operation was executed by the Rashtriya Rifles on 20 November 2024, triggered by specific intelligence regarding the movement of terrorist groups in the Kishtwar sector. The Corps acknowledged the existence of reports concerning the alleged mistreatment of civilians during this operation and confirmed that an investigation would be initiated to uncover the truth of the situation. “Necessary follow-up action will be ensured,” the Army’s statement read, while also emphasizing that further movements of the terrorist group are being closely tracked.
The search operation, which involved collaboration between the Army, local police, and paramilitary forces, was launched in the vicinity where the ambush occurred, leading to the JCO’s death during a fierce exchange of gunfire. It has been alleged that the four civilians were called to an Army camp for questioning on the day of the operation, where they reportedly faced physical abuse.
Local authorities have indicated that the matter is under investigation, with law enforcement looking into the specifics of the allegations against the Army personnel involved.
Political figures have expressed their concern regarding the incidents. Altaf Bukhari, chief of the J&K Apni Party, took to social media platform X to voice his disapproval of the reported torture. He called for a thorough investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable, stating, “Such incidents should not be tolerated. My deepest sympathies are with the victims.”
Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and a leader in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), echoed Bukhari’s sentiments. She described the allegations of army officials torturing civilians as “yet another distressing example” of how certain laws grant excessive powers and impunity to armed forces operating in Jammu and Kashmir.
The unfolding events have raised significant concerns about the treatment of civilians in conflict zones, highlighting the ongoing challenges in balancing security operations with human rights considerations. As investigations proceed, the spotlight remains on the actions of the military and the accountability mechanisms in place for any alleged abuses.
