Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly witnessed intense scenes on Saturday as legislators from multiple parties raised serious concerns over a controversial killing in Ganderbal, demanding a judicial inquiry and the immediate return of the deceased’s body to his family.
The issue pertains to the killing of Rahid Mughal in a forested area of Ganderbal, where the Army has claimed he was a militant. However, his family has disputed the claim, asserting that he was a civilian, triggering widespread concern and political debate.
During the Assembly proceedings, members questioned the circumstances surrounding the operation and the process of identification, with many expressing dissatisfaction over the ongoing magisterial inquiry ordered by the Lieutenant Governor.
Congress MLA Nizamuddin Bhat termed the current probe inadequate, stressing that a judicial inquiry was necessary in a matter of such gravity.
“A magisterial inquiry is not enough. There is always pressure at that level. This is a serious issue that raises questions about how lives are being treated,” he said.
National Conference MLA Mubarak Gul underscored the need to prevent such incidents and ensure clear distinction between militants and civilians.
“There must be a clear difference between a militant and an innocent civilian. The Home Minister should send a strong message in this regard,” he remarked.
NC leader Hasnain Masoodi also highlighted that the body of the deceased had not been handed over to the family, calling it a violation of fundamental rights.
“It is the constitutional right of the family to perform last rites. If an inquiry is underway, the body should be returned without delay,” he said.
Echoing similar concerns, NC MLA Saifullah Mir described the incident as a grave injustice and called for safeguards in future operations, along with a judicial probe.
The Assembly saw strong reactions cutting across party lines, with repeated demands for transparency, accountability, and a fair investigation into the Ganderbal incident.
