SRINAGAR: Former Chief Minister and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti has alleged that a 25-year-old man, accused of being an Over Ground Worker (OGW) of militants, died after being subjected to brutal torture in police custody in the border district of Kathua.
"Shocking news from Kathua: Makhan Din, aged 25, from Perody, Billawar, was detained by the SHO of Billawar on false charges of being an Over Ground Worker (OGW). He was reportedly subjected to brutal thrashing and torture, forced into a confession, and tragically found dead today," Mehbooba posted on X, formerly Twitter.
She further stated that the area had been sealed off, and internet services had been suspended, causing widespread panic.
"There's an ongoing crackdown, with more individuals being picked up. This incident appears to follow a troubling pattern of targeting innocent youths on fabricated charges. I urge the DGP @JmuKmrPolice to initiate an immediate investigation," she added.
State President of the J&K Gujjar Bakerwal Youth Welfare Conference (JKGBYWC), Zahid Parwaz Choudhary, also raised concerns over the incident.
"Makhan Din, aged 25, hailing from Perody, Billawar, was arrested by the SHO Billawar of Kathua district on false and fabricated charges of being an OGW," he posted on X.
"Police tortured him brutally and forced a confession. Today, he has been found dead. Torture killing. Those involved should be booked," he further alleged.
Meanwhile, police has taken cognizance of the issue.
"ZPHQ Jammu has taken #cognizance of the #Kathua issue and ordered a time bound #Inquiry, by DIG JKS Range," police posted on X.