A Jammu and Kashmir police constable faces arrest for the killing of 21-year-old Gujjar youth Mohammad Parvez in July, as officials confirmed his detention on Wednesday. The incident, which occurred near Sure Chak village on July 24, triggered widespread outrage within the Gujjar community and extensive protests across the region.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti hailed this arrest as a significant move towards justice. She asserted, “It is a reminder that no one, not even those in uniform, is above the law.” Her remarks resonate amid the escalating demand for accountability and meaningful reforms within the law enforcement sector.
Eyewitnesses reported that Parvez, a resident of Niki Tawi, was gunned down during a police operation, which authorities initially claimed involved a shootout. However, community members contested this narrative, asserting that he fell victim to a “fake encounter.”
The incident sparked a wave of protests, with community leaders and members vocally challenging the police’s account. Demonstrators united under the belief that Parvez was an innocent youth and not involved in any criminal activity, particularly drug trafficking, as alleged by the police.
In light of the serious allegations against the police, the Jammu and Kashmir Police constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Parvez’s death. Simultaneously, a magisterial inquiry was launched, reflecting the urgency to address the community’s demands and restore public trust.
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the shootout and paid a visit to the grieving family. Abdullah emphasized the importance of a transparent investigation, urging that it be completed in a timely manner to uphold public confidence in the law enforcement process.
Following the SIT’s investigations, Pawan Singh, a selection grade constable, received formal arrest charges under section 105 of the Indian Penal Code for culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Alongside him, head constable Baljinder Singh has been suspended pending further investigation into the case.
Mufti characterized Pawan Singh’s arrest as a critical juncture in the long path toward justice for Parvez. She noted the significance of this development in sending a firm message about police accountability. “The arrest of Pawan Singh is a crucial step toward justice,” she stated in a post on X. “This sends a reflection on the standards that the law enforcement must uphold.”
In her comments, Mufti highlighted the irreparable loss faced by Parvez’s family but expressed hope that this legal action would pave the way for fairness and justice through the judicial process.
“SSP Jammu, Joginder Singh, under the leadership of IGP Jammu, deserves appreciation for ensuring a fair and transparent investigation. This move helps restore faith in the system,” she added, emphasizing the hope that Parvez would ultimately find justice.