25th Anniversary of Pathribal Fake Encounter in IIOJK: Families Demand UN Probe into Killings

The tragedy of the Pathribal fake encounter continues to haunt the families of victims even after 25 years, as they call on the international community to investigate these unlawful killings and demand justice for the victims.

On March 25, 2000, five civilians were killed in a fake encounter by Indian troops in the Pathribal area of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The troops claimed the victims were foreign militants, but their identities were later revealed as innocent locals. This incident followed the massacre of 35 Sikh men in Chattisinghpora, which occurred just five days earlier. The killings in Chattisinghpora were initially blamed on foreign militants but later investigations revealed that the perpetrators were Indian soldiers in disguise.

The Pathribal encounter was one of several in a series of human rights violations in the region during that period. It sparked outrage and grief among local communities. Just days after the incident, in Barakpora village, Indian troops opened fire on peaceful protesters who were demanding justice for the Pathribal killings. This further intensified the feelings of injustice and anger in the affected areas.

The families of those killed in Pathribal, including Juma Khan, Bashir Ahmad Butt, Mohammad Yousuf Malik, and Zahoor Ahmad Dalal, have been vocal about their loss and the lack of accountability. These individuals, who were innocent civilians, are still remembered by their families, who continue to seek justice for their unlawful deaths. Despite the passage of time, the victims’ families remain committed to their cause, calling for international intervention.

One family member expressed their frustration, stating, “How can you expect justice from those who are themselves the perpetrators of the crime? But we will not give up.” This sentiment reflects the ongoing struggle for justice, as the victims’ families continue to fight for the recognition of their loved ones’ innocence.

The families are not only calling for justice in the Pathribal case but are also demanding an investigation into all fake encounter killings and massacres in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir since 1989. They have urged the United Nations to send a team to thoroughly investigate these incidents and hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions. The lack of transparency and accountability in these cases has led to widespread calls for international intervention.

In support of the families’ demands, the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) spokesman, Advocate Abdul Rashid Minhas, paid tribute to the martyrs of Pathribal. On the 25th anniversary of the killings, he reiterated Kashmiris’ resolve to continue their struggle for freedom from Indian occupation. Minhas emphasized that anti-Kashmir elements, including collaborators, have played a significant role in prolonging the illegal occupation of IIOJK by India.

As the 25th anniversary of the Pathribal fake encounter passes, the call for justice grows louder. The families of the victims, along with human rights organizations and political leaders, continue to push for an independent investigation into these killings, hoping that one day, the truth will emerge, and justice will be served.