New Delhi, July 20, 2025:
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of a plea concerning the alleged enforced disappearance and mysterious deaths of three minority men in Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The matter has been disposed of with directions to the concerned authorities to take appropriate action within four weeks, associating the complainant and informing them of the action taken.
The incident dates back to February 13, 2025, when three men—Showkat Ahmad, Riyaz Ahmad Bajad, and Mukhtar Ahmad—went missing while travelling from Qazigund to Ashmuji. Within a month, the bodies of Riyaz and Showkat were recovered with suspicious injuries, raising serious concerns. The third person, Mukhtar Ahmad, remains missing. The families strongly rejected the official explanation of accidental drowning, alleging foul play and demanding a transparent and independent inquiry.
The plea sought urgent intervention by the NHRC, calling for an independent investigation into the matter, accountability of state authorities, and protection of the victims’ families. The NHRC’s directions mark a significant step in ensuring official responsibility and transparency in the case.
The complaint was filed by the Organisation for Human Rights and Harmony, led by Founder Advocate Mr. Nikhil Padha, who emphasized the need for justice and institutional accountability in cases involving vulnerable communities. “This is not just about three individuals—it is about restoring faith in the rule of law and protecting minority rights,” he stated
