News Brief
Jammu-Kashmir: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Meets Families Amidst Alleged Custodial Death Claims, Pledges Accountability
Rajnath Singh in Jammu-Kashmir
In a significant move, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with six representatives from families claiming their relatives were killed in custody in the Topa Pir village of Jammu & Kashmir.
The families were brought to Rajouri town by administration-arranged vehicles, accompanied by local officials, reported Indian Express.
This comes after senior army officers, including Brigadier M P Singh and the commanding officer of the 16 Rashtriya Rifles, visited the homes of the affected families within the last 24 hours.
During the meeting, the families shared their concerns and stressed the need for a thorough investigation into the alleged custodial deaths of their family members.
The officers had previously assured the families of strict action against those found responsible for the deaths.
The civilians in question were reportedly detained by security forces for questioning following a militant attack on army vehicles in the area.
Subsequently, three individuals from Topa Pir village allegedly died in custody, and five others from the Thanamandi area were hospitalised with injuries.
In response to the incident, the district administration has promised compensation, offering Rs 30 lakh, a government job, and a 10-marla plot in Surankote to the next of kin of each deceased individual.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Jammu & Kashmir holds significance, marking his first trip since the tragic encounter that resulted in the killing of five Army soldiers, including two Captains, in Rajouri’s Kandi area last month.
During his visit, the Defence Minister is expected to receive briefings from senior army officers on the ground situation in Rajouri and Poonch districts.
Additionally, he will conduct a review of the border situation before returning to Delhi.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.
Latest
