Probe intensifies into alleged fake encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department ordered a magisterial inquiry into an alleged fake encounter in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal, the Police have questioned several individuals to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the killing of a 29-year-old postgraduate.

The probe was ordered following directions from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha after the family of the deceased contested the official version of events.

The Army said Rashid Ahmad Mughal was a “terrorist” killed during an encounter earlier this week, a claim disputed by his family.

Sources said multiple persons, including the brother of the deceased, have been questioned so far as part of the ongoing investigation aimed at reconstructing the sequence of events and verifying claims linked to the encounter.

Family members have strongly rejected the Army’s version. “He was not a militant. He was an innocent civilian,” they said, demanding a fair probe.

A senior Police officer said the case is under investigation and all aspects are being examined. “We are looking into the circumstances of the incident and collecting evidence. The facts will be established,” he said.

Officials said the magisterial inquiry ordered by the Home Department on Friday will examine the circumstances leading to the killing, including the sequence of events and inputs that led to the operation.

The inquiry officer has been asked to submit the report within seven days, underscoring the need for a time-bound and transparent probe to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

Political leaders expressed concern over the killing. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called for a transparent and time-bound probe, while Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti urged accountability.

Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said justice must be done and the truth established.

The last time the Army faced public outrage over a similar issue was in December 2023, when three Muslim tribal Gujjar men were allegedly tortured to death, sparking widespread criticism and demands for accountability.