Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is visiting Indian-administered Kashmir to review security measures in the region, particularly in the wake of the deaths of three civilians allegedly in army custody. The incident has sparked fresh tensions in the area, with the men initially detained for questioning after a suspected militant attack resulted in the deaths of four soldiers.
An inquiry was launched into the deaths of the three civilians amid accusations from locals that they were tortured at a military camp. While the army has not provided an official statement, it asserts cooperation with the investigation and has initiated its own inquiry to examine the circumstances leading to the deaths.
Mr. Singh, expressing concern for the injured soldiers, assured that necessary steps were being taken to investigate the incident. His visit includes a planned meeting with the families of the deceased civilians in the Poonch district.
The deaths have triggered widespread anger, prompting demands from locals and political parties for a fair investigation. In response to intensifying protests, mobile internet services were suspended in Poonch and its neighboring district. Kashmir, one of the world’s most militarized zones, has a history of accusations against security forces for excesses, including beatings and torture.
Kashmir has been a longstanding point of contention between India and Pakistan, both of which claim the region in full but control only parts of it. The Indian army has been combatting a separatist insurgency for over three decades, leading to thousands of casualties. India accuses Pakistan of instigating violence, a claim vehemently denied by its neighbor.
Reports indicate that at least eight civilians were detained for questioning by the army following the militant attack. After the deaths of three individuals, families alleged severe torture, pointing to signs on the bodies. A video circulating on social media, purportedly showing Indian army personnel torturing the men, has contributed to the growing unrest. The video’s authenticity could not be independently verified.
In response to the situation, police registered a murder case against unidentified individuals. The Indian Army issued a statement on Sunday affirming their commitment to supporting and cooperating in the investigation, emphasizing that the matter is under scrutiny. The incident underscores the complex and sensitive nature of the security situation in the region.
Kiki Garba
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