Jammu, Mar 17: The issue of the deaths of two brothers, who were among three people missing since last month, was raised in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday by members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the National Conference (NC). The legislators demanded a high-level investigation into the incident.
Showkat Ahmad Bajad, his brother Riyaz Ahmad Bajad, and Mukhtar Ahmad went missing on February 13 while traveling to attend a function in Ashmuji. The three, who were working as labourers, never reached their destination. Showkat’s body was found in Vaishov Nullah in Kulgam district on Sunday, while Riyaz’s body was recovered from the same spot a few days earlier.
As the assembly proceedings began, PDP members, led by Wahid Para, raised concerns about the deaths, which they said had caused panic among the people. They demanded an impartial investigation to bring those responsible to justice. Despite Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather’s request to proceed with the Question Hour, PDP members continued to raise the issue from their seats.
Members of the ruling NC also joined the calls for a high-level inquiry into the deaths. NC member Peerzada Feroze Ahmed highlighted the rising number of missing persons cases, which, he said, had created widespread fear. The members also referred to similar incidents in Kathua.
In a show of protest, some NC members entered the Well of the House, urging a probe into the deaths and alleged police mistreatment of a woman, sparking a ruckus. The Speaker intervened and acknowledged reports of misconduct involving the woman. He assured the House that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, present in the assembly, would address the matter and ensure appropriate action.
Speaking to reporters outside the assembly, Wahid Para expressed his concern, stating, “Such incidents have created insecurity among the people. We are not accusing anyone, but there is a critical need for an impartial probe, as one community feels targeted.”
A group of protesters blocked the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in Kulgam on Sunday night, demanding a police investigation into the deaths and action against those suspected of being responsible. The missing youths, all Gujjars from Devsar, were identified as Riyaz Ahmad, Showkat, and Mukhtar Ahmad Awan, all residents of Kulgam.
Tags: Northlines, Jammu and Kashmir, Legislative Assembly
