A Jammu and Kashmir Police constable formally faced arrest for his role in the killing of a Gujjar youth, Mohammad Parvez, in a shooting incident on July 24. The matter stirred significant public outrage and demands for accountability.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed her approval of the arrest, labeling it as a vital step toward delivering justice to the bereaved family. In her statement, she emphasized, “No one, not even those in uniform, is above the law,” reinforcing the importance of accountability within the police ranks.
The incident that led to the arrest occurred near Sure Chak village on the outskirts of Jammu city, when 21-year-old Mohammad Parvez was allegedly shot during a police operation. The police initially described him as a drug peddler, a claim vehemently rejected by the Gujjar community, who asserted he was an innocent victim of a “fake encounter.” These claims ignited widespread protests across the region, underlining the community’s frustration and demand for justice.
In response to the allegations, the J&K Police acted swiftly by forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the case. Additionally, a magisterial inquiry was launched to ensure thorough scrutiny of the events surrounding Parvez’s death. Prominent political leaders, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, condemned the shooting and stressed the necessity for a transparent and prompt investigation.
Following the SIT’s findings, selection grade constable Pawan Singh faced arrest and is charged under section 105 of the BNS (culpable homicide not amounting to murder). Details regarding the incident remain sparse as officials continue to investigate the circumstances that led to this tragic event.
Immediately after the incident, Singh and head constable Baljinder Singh were suspended pending an investigation, reflecting the seriousness with which the police department treats allegations of misconduct. Mehbooba Mufti lauded this action, indicating a commitment to reform within the force.
“The arrest of Pawan Singh in connection with the tragic death of Parvez is a crucial step toward justice,” Mufti stated on social media platform X. “While his loss is irreparable, this arrest offers a small hope that justice will be served.”
Furthermore, she expressed gratitude towards SSP Jammu, Joginder Singh, appreciating his efforts to ensure a fair and transparent investigation. Mufti hopes this measure rebuilds trust in the judicial process, stating that “Parvez, silenced in life, deserves justice.”
The events surrounding this case highlight the ongoing discussions about police accountability in Jammu and Kashmir. The actions taken by the authorities could signal a potential shift towards greater responsibility within law enforcement agencies in the region.
As community leaders urge for justice, the hope remains that the judicial process will continue to evolve, safeguarding the rights of every citizen, irrespective of their socio-economic background.
