Impartial Inquiry Demanded into Custodial Death of a Youth in Pulwama

In Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the National Conference (NC) has demanded an impartial investigation into the death of a youth while in police custody in the Pulwama district. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.

The civilian, identified as Imtiaz Ahmed Pala, a mechanic by profession, allegedly died due to torture at the Litter Police Station in Pulwama. According to reports, Pala was detained by the police on Tuesday and subsequently died in custody. The NC has highlighted the urgent need for a fair judicial inquiry to hold those responsible accountable.

In a statement on the social media platform X, the NC expressed its deep concern over the incident: “The details emerging from this case are deeply distressing. The NC calls for an impartial judicial inquiry into the incident to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and face the full force of the law.” This demand for transparency and justice is echoed by various political and social organizations across the region.

The police have yet to provide a detailed account of the circumstances surrounding Pala’s death. However, Pala’s family claims that he succumbed to torture inflicted during his custody. This claim has intensified the public outcry and the demand for a thorough investigation.

Adding to the voices demanding justice, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has also called for an impartial investigation into the incident. Her involvement underscores the gravity of the situation and the widespread demand for accountability.

The death of Imtiaz Ahmed Pala is not an isolated incident. It highlights a broader, deeply troubling pattern of custodial deaths in IIOJK. Over the past 34 years, thousands of Kashmiris have reportedly died in Indian forces-run interrogation centers. According to reports, since 1989, 96,308 Kashmiris, including 7,336 in custody, have been killed by Indian forces personnel protected by draconian laws. These custodial killings are widely believed to be a tactic to instill fear among Kashmiris and suppress their struggle for self-determination.

Despite these oppressive measures, the determination of the Kashmiri people to continue their fight for their rights remains unwavering. The call for an impartial investigation into Pala’s death is part of a broader demand for justice and accountability in the region.

The NC’s call for an impartial judicial inquiry reflects the need for transparency and justice in dealing with human rights abuses. Ensuring accountability for such incidents is crucial for restoring public trust and upholding the rule of law. The international community and human rights organizations are also urged to pay attention to these incidents and support efforts to ensure justice and human rights in the region.

In conclusion, the tragic death of Imtiaz Ahmed Pala in police custody has highlighted the urgent need for an impartial investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. It underscores the broader issues of custodial violence and human rights abuses in IIOJK at the hands of Indian troops, calling for a concerted effort to address these challenges and support the Kashmiri people’s quest for justice and self-determination.