A Jammu and Kashmir Police constable, Pawan Singh, was arrested on Wednesday in connection with the killing of a Gujjar youth, Mohammad Parvez, in July. The incident, which took place near Sure Chak village on July 24, sparked widespread protests from the Gujjar community amid accusations of a police cover-up.
The 21-year-old youth was shot dead by police, who claimed he was involved in drug peddling. Locals, however, condemned the police’s narrative, asserting that he was a victim of a ‘fake encounter’. The community’s outrage led to the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) alongside a magisterial probe to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
In a statement following the arrest, former Chief Minister and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti hailed the action as a significant stride towards justice. She stated, “The arrest of Pawan Singh is a crucial step toward justice. It sends a strong message that accountability within the police force is not optional and that no one, not even those in uniform, is above the law.”
Mufti emphasized Parvez’s innocence, expressing that while his loss is irreparable, the arrest offers a glimmer of hope for justice. She praised the efforts of police officials, including Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu, Joginder Singh, and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu, for facilitating a fair investigation.
After the incident, both Pawan Singh and head constable Baljinder Singh faced suspension pending the inquiry. The police’s quick response to the allegations against its personnel highlights a shift in approach towards accountability within the force.
The political ramifications of this incident extend beyond mere criminal justice. Several prominent leaders, including Omar Abdullah, condemned the killing, calling for a transparent and speedy investigation. Abdullahi’s sentiments reflect a broader demand for trust-building between law enforcement agencies and local communities, particularly in sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
The arrest of the constable under section 105 of the BNS (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) illustrates the serious nature of the allegations against him. Authorities have yet to release further details regarding the ongoing investigation, but the focus remains on ensuring justice for Parvez and restoring faith in the legal system.
While the investigations continue, the family of Mohammad Parvez seeks closure and accountability for the loss of their loved one. Community leaders stress the importance of justice as integral to healing the rift between the citizens and the police.
As the judicial process unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor how this case influences public perception towards law enforcement in Jammu and Kashmir, especially regarding incidents involving civilians.
