SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched an inquiry into accusations that one of their personnel kicked a woman during a demonstration in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district.
The investigation was prompted after a video of the alleged act surfaced online. A senior police official confirmed that the department has taken note of the allegations and initiated a formal inquiry into the matter.
The Kashmir Zone Police, in a post on X, stated, “A video has emerged on social media showing the behavior of a police officer with civilians in Kulgam. We have taken cognizance of the incident and the accusations regarding the officer’s actions. The DIG of South Kashmir Range has been assigned to investigate and present his findings within ten days.”
The incident has sparked outrage, with multiple political figures and citizens condemning the use of force. National Conference MP Aga Ruhullah criticized the police response, calling it “shameful and inhumane.”
“The tragic deaths of Riyaz and Showkat in Kulgam have left their families devastated. Instead of empathy, they are subjected to violence. No grieving family should have to fight for justice while being assaulted. Those responsible—both for the deaths and the excessive police force—must be held accountable,” Ruhullah posted on social media.
Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, a PDP legislator from Pulwama, pointed to a pattern of “unexplained deaths” in tribal regions and slammed the police action against protesters.
“The series of mysterious deaths in tribal areas continues—from Budhal to Kathua, and now Kulgam. The families of Riyaz and Mohammad Showkat have found their loved ones’ bodies, but Mukhtar remains missing. Meanwhile, peaceful demonstrators seeking justice for the Gujjar brothers face police aggression. The silence from the J&K administration is unacceptable,” Para wrote in a post.
Handwara MLA and People’s Conference President Sajad Lone also strongly denounced the act, stating, “The images of a police officer kicking mourning women in Kulgam are deeply disturbing.”
He further remarked that such actions reflect a larger issue within the law enforcement system. “This is not an isolated incident but an ongoing reality that often goes undocumented. Those in power must recognize their duty to protect, not oppress.”
Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families, Lone extended his condolences and expressed hope for the safe return of the third missing youth.
