Unresolved Deaths Spark Fear in IIOJK’s Gujjar Community

The mysterious deaths of two young men from the Gujjar community in IIOJK, along with the disappearance of a third, have raised serious questions about the safety of marginalized groups in the region.

The deaths of Showkat Ahmad and Riyaz Ahmad, whose bodies were found with signs of torture in a canal in Kulgam, have sparked widespread concern and anger in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). These incidents have drawn attention to the struggles faced by the Gujjar community, a traditionally marginalized group in IIOJK.

According to Indian authorities, the brothers drowned in the canal, but their family believes the marks of injury on their bodies tell a different story. The case has highlighted the deepening mistrust between the Gujjar community and the authorities. The situation worsened with the disappearance of their cousin, Mukhtar Ahmad Awan, who has not been found.

The Gujjar community has long faced social and economic challenges. The deaths of Showkat and Riyaz, along with the ongoing search for Mukhtar, have intensified these fears. In addition, recent deaths in the Badhal village, where 17 people, including 14 children, died mysteriously, have raised further suspicions. The cause of their deaths remains unknown, and no official explanation has been provided, leading to more unrest.

The two brothers went missing after attending a wedding on February 13. Their bodies were found a month later in the Vishow Canal. The discovery triggered protests by tribal groups in Kulgam and Jammu. These protests have called for an independent investigation and justice for the victims. The case has gained political attention, with many calling for transparency and accountability from the authorities.

Meema Begum, the mother of the two brothers, is devastated. She describes her sons as innocent laborers with no enemies. She insists that their injuries were not consistent with drowning and demands justice. Their uncle, Mohammad Jeelani, who witnessed the retrieval of the bodies, echoed her concerns. He pointed out the trauma on their bodies, adding to the growing sense of helplessness in the community.

The Kulgam incident is not the first of its kind. The deaths of three individuals in Kathua earlier have also raised alarm within the Gujjar community. These recurring events have led to fears of targeted violence and a growing sense of impunity among authorities.

Before these incidents, another tragic case involved Makhan Din, who died after allegedly being tortured by the police. In a video, he spoke of the abuse he endured, and his death led to further protests in the region.

Amir Chowdhury, a tribal activist, expressed frustration over the authorities’ response to these issues. He questioned the official version of events, pointing out that the water level in Kulgam’s streams is shallow, making it unlikely that the brothers drowned. He also criticized the way the authorities are stifling the voices of the community.

Eyewitnesses from the family have confirmed that the condition of the bodies was not consistent with drowning. They reported boil-like marks and other signs of injury, further fueling the demand for an unbiased investigation.

The family of the victims remains united in their quest for answers. They have vowed not to rest until they know the truth behind their loved ones’ deaths. Bashir Ahmad Bhajad, another uncle of the victims, also called for an independent inquiry. He doubts the official story and demands that those responsible be held accountable.

The deaths of Showkat and Riyaz Ahmad, combined with the ongoing search for Mukhtar Ahmad, have brought attention to the vulnerability of the Gujjar community in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). These tragic events continue to stir fear and frustration, with many calling for justice and transparency.