Amidst the ongoing investigation into the terrorist ambush in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir administration announced compensation and jobs for the families of three civilians found dead on Friday near the ambush site. However, the deaths have sparked controversy as family members and political parties allege “custodial murders inside an army camp of 48 RR (Rashtriya Rifles).”
The deceased individuals, Safeer Hussain (44), Showket Ali (22), and Shabir Hussain (32), were buried on Saturday at their native village Topa Peer. The announcement of compensation and jobs comes as an attempt to address the concerns raised by the families and political parties, demanding transparency and accountability.
Mohammad Sadeeq, a local panch, claimed that the army had detained nine men from the village, alleging torture and custodial deaths. He stated that the detained men were initially taken to Mal post and then shifted to Bafliaz post. Videos circulating, purportedly showing men in army uniforms abusing and assaulting detainees, have further fueled the controversy.
The families are demanding evidence of their involvement in any terror activity and justice for the deceased, citing injury marks and torture as per their claims. The army, in response, has initiated an investigation into the matter.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited the ambush site on Friday, as the People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), an offshoot of Jaish-e-Mohammad, claimed responsibility for the attack.
Political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have called for an impartial probe and compensation for the affected families. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti expressed concern over videos depicting alleged army misconduct and called for a thorough investigation by the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
The incident has reignited the debate on alleged human rights violations in conflict zones and raises questions about the conduct of security forces in counter-terrorism operations.
