Army Personnel Face FIR for Allegedly Assaulting Jammu and Kashmir Police Officers

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have filed a first information report (FIR) against the commanding officer of the 17 Rashtriya Rifles along with several other Army personnel in Kishtwar district. The FIR cites allegations of assault against police officers and causing damage to public property during an incident that unfolded on Wednesday.

According to reports, the conflict began when a police team stopped a private vehicle belonging to an Army official for alleged traffic violations. In response to the police action, a group of approximately 30 to 40 Army personnel, reportedly led by Major Vikash Sharma and Naib Subedar Shankar Gurkhe, allegedly executed a planned assault on the Atholi police station. Police officials claim that the Army personnel breached the main gate and boundary wall of the station, armed with sticks, iron rods, and other weapons.

Station House Officer (SHO) Amrit Kotach stated that the attackers had a clear intention to inflict serious harm on the police personnel on duty. He emphasized that the situation escalated rapidly, leading to injuries among several officers. Notably, Special Police Officer Suresh Kumar sustained a significant injury when he was struck on the neck with the butt of a service rifle, as per the information from the police.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have expressed their commitment to conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, the Indian Army has acknowledged the matter, stating that it is being looked into through the proper institutional channels. They assured the public that appropriate actions would be taken following the outcome of a joint investigation.

This incident has raised concerns regarding civil-military relations in the region, particularly in the wake of ongoing tensions and the sensitive security environment prevalent in Jammu and Kashmir. The actions of military personnel and their interactions with law enforcement agencies often draw scrutiny, as they highlight broader issues of accountability and governance in a region that has been affected by conflict for decades.

Source: scroll.in