SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has launched a magisterial inquiry into the death of Parvez Ahmad, a 21-year-old Gujjar youth from the Nikki Tawi area of Jammu, whose killing has led to widespread protests and political uproar across the union territory.
Parvez Ahmad, also known as Bachi, was killed on July 24 in the Satwari area of Jammu. According to initial reports, the incident occurred when police were allegedly chasing suspected drug peddlers. The youth’s family and members of the Gujjar community have accused authorities of conducting a “staged” encounter and have labelled Parvez’s killing as that of an “innocent” person, further intensifying public concern.
Responding to the mounting pressure and calls for accountability, the administration has appointed the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Jammu South, Manu Hansa, as the inquiry officer. In a public notice, the SDM has urged any individuals who possess information, evidence, or statements related to the events of July 24 to voluntarily step forward.
“For a fair and transparent inquiry, anyone having knowledge, information, evidence, or other input regarding the incident is requested to submit the same to the SDM Jammu South, either in person or in writing, during office hours by or before August 4,” the notice stated. It further provided an email address (sdmsouthjammu@gmail.com) and a phone contact (9484002110) for the submission of information.
The SDM assured that the identities of individuals providing information or evidence would be kept confidential upon request. “This notice is issued in the interest of justice and to ensure that all relevant facts are brought on record for the fair and transparent conclusion of the inquiry,” the official statement emphasised.
As the probe continues, community members and rights activists are closely watching the proceedings, hoping for an impartial investigation into the circumstances that led to Parvez Ahmad’s death. The administration’s call for public participation is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring accountability and justice in a case that has struck a chord across the region.
