Death of Kashmiri trader in Delhi sparks outrage, renews fears of targeted hostility

Srinagar: Amid growing concerns over the safety of Kashmiris living in different parts of the country following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the death of a 30-year-old Kashmiri man in New Delhi has sparked outrage and renewed fears of targeted hostility.

Zubair Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Srinagar’s Ali Kadal area, reportedly died after being brutally assaulted in the national capital - an incident his family alleges involved the Delhi Police.

According to the family, Zubair was attacked with rods and sticks, resulting in fatal injuries. His body was flown back to Srinagar on June 4, prompting swift reactions across the political and social spectrum in Kashmir. The J&K Police have since reportedly visited the bereaved family and assured them that an investigation has been initiated.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chief cleric of Kashmir and chairman of the Hurriyat Conference, condemned the incident during his Friday sermon at Srinagar’s Jama Masjid. He described the killing as “inhuman and unacceptable,” expressing alarm over what he termed a pattern of violence against Kashmiris outside the Valley.

“Zubair’s custodial-like death - allegedly at the hands of Delhi Police as claimed by his family - has brought back haunting memories of such deaths and raised serious concerns regarding the safety and security of Kashmiris students, professionals, traders, and labourers residing in different parts of India,” he said.

“After the recent Pahalgam incident, Kashmiris across the country are increasingly facing hostility. And now, an innocent young trader has been killed in cold blood. How long will this go on?” Mirwaiz asked.

Opposition PDP leader Iltija Mufti, who met with Zubair’s grieving family, echoed demands for a fair and transparent probe. “The family has pointed to digital evidence, including screenshots and messages, that suggest foul play. It is imperative that these claims are taken seriously,” she demanded.

Ruling National Conference spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to personally intervene, underlining the need for impartiality. “This case cannot be brushed aside. A thorough investigation is essential to uphold justice and restore public faith,” he said.

As outrage grows, both the Delhi Police and Jammu & Kashmir Police are yet to issue official statements regarding the circumstances of Zubair’s death.

Meanwhile, Kashmiris living in other parts of the country are increasingly vocal about feeling unsafe in the wake of rising hostilities against Kashmiris.