A Jammu and Kashmir Police constable faced arrest on Wednesday, linked to the killing of a Gujjar youth in a shooting incident during July. The accused constable, Pawan Singh, was apprehended amid rising outcries for justice from community leaders and political figures.
Mohammad Parvez, a 21-year-old from Niki Tawi, lost his life in a police shootout near Sure Chak village on July 24, igniting protests from the Gujjar community. They refuted the police claims that Parvez was involved in drug peddling, insisting that he fell victim to a “fake encounter.”
The incident prompted an immediate investigation. Authorities constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and ordered a magisterial probe because of the severity of the allegations. Political reactions poured in, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti condemning the event, demanding a thorough investigation.
On the basis of SIT findings, Pawan Singh now faces charges under section 105 of the BNS (culpable homicide not amounting to murder). His immediate superior, head constable Baljinder Singh, also suffered suspension as the investigation unfolded.
In her statements, Mehbooba Mufti emphasized the importance of this development. She stated, “The arrest of Pawan Singh in connection with the tragic death of Parvez is a crucial step toward justice.” She commended this as a potent reminder that no individual, not even policemen, stands above the law.
While Mufti recognized that the loss of Parvez is irretrievable, she stated that the arrest brings a glimmer of hope for justice. She praised SSP Jammu, Joginder Singh, for ensuring a transparent investigation. “This step helps restore faith in the system. Hope now the judicial process takes its course and Parvez, silenced in life, finds justice at last,” she declared.
The inquiry into this incident opens a chapter of accountability within police operations, essential in a society where trust can erode swiftly. The Gujjar community and all concerned citizens continue to watch for further developments in the case, hoping for a conclusion that exemplifies justice and reinforces faith in law enforcement.
