A Jammu and Kashmir police constable has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of a Gujjar youth, Mohammad Parvez, aged 21, near Jammu city on July 24. The incident, which has drawn widespread attention and outrage, prompted the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti, to call this a significant step toward justice.
The tragic incident occurred during a police operation near Sure Chak village, where authorities initially alleged that Parvez was a drug peddler. However, the Gujjar community strongly disputed this claim, labeling the shooting a “fake encounter”. This led to a series of protests and heightened tensions in the region.
In light of the allegations, the Jammu and Kashmir Police swiftly established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the matter. Moreover, a magisterial probe was also ordered, addressing the concerns raised by political leaders, including the former chief minister, Omar Abdullah. Both Abdullah and Mufti visited Parvez’s family, voicing their demands for a thorough and time-bound investigation.
Following the SIT’s findings, police arrested selection grade constable Pawan Singh, who now faces charges under section 105 of the BNS Act, which pertains to culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Singh, along with head constable Baljinder Singh, had previously been suspended after the incident pending the investigation.
Mehbooba Mufti expressed her thoughts on the arrest, stating, “The arrest of Pawan Singh in connection with the tragic death of Parvez is a crucial step toward justice. It is a reminder that no one, not even those in uniform, is above the law.” She emphasized her belief that this case should serve as a clear message for accountability within the police force.
Mufti further claimed that Parvez was an innocent victim, adding that his untimely loss is irreparable, yet this arrest inspires hope that justice will eventually be served. “SSP Jammu, Joginder Singh, under the leadership of IGP Jammu, deserves appreciation for ensuring a fair and transparent investigation, a step that helps restore faith in the system,” she said in a post on social media platform X.
The cumulative effect of this case seems to highlight broader issues surrounding police accountability and the treatment of marginalized communities in the region. As the judicial process progresses, many hope for a just resolution that honors the memory of Parvez, whose life was cut short in tragic circumstances.
The killing of the Gujjar youth resonates strongly with ongoing discussions about police reforms across India. Communities across the nation call for transparency in law enforcement, making justice not only a demand for Parvez’s family but a larger societal expectation.
