SRINAGAR: Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday expressed shock over the alleged sexual assault and death of a woman in Srinagar’s Nishat area.
In a post on X, she wrote, “Deeply shocked and heartbroken by the alleged rape and tragic death of a tribal woman in Nishat. Reports suggest she suffered brutal injuries and succumbed en route to the hospital. The police have arrested the accused, who were reportedly intoxicated during the crime.”
Deeply shocked and heartbroken by the alleged rape and tragic death of a tribal woman in Nishat. Reports suggest she suffered brutal injuries and succumbed en route to the hospital. The police have arrested the accused, who were reportedly intoxicated during the crime.
Substance…
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) May 5, 2025
She further said, “Substance abuse, particularly alcohol and drugs, is devastating our youth and fuelling horrific crimes like rape and murder. This tragedy reflects a broader societal crisis.” Mufti extended condolences to the victim’s family and urged strict legal action against the accused.
The reaction came after Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested four individuals in connection with the incident. A police spokesperson said that a woman (name withheld) was allegedly assaulted by a group near Water Works Road, Nishat. “The victim had sustained grievous injuries and was shifted to hospital, where she was declared brought dead,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
Police said an FIR (No. 35/2025) under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Nishat, and investigation was launched immediately. During the course of investigation, four accused were identified and arrested.
The accused have been identified as Suhail Bashir Bhat, son of Bashir Ahmad, resident of Asham Sumbal; Adil Ali Bhat, son of Ali Mohammad, resident of Zeethyar Nishat; Firdous Ahmad Rather, son of Ghulam Ahmad, resident of Zeethyar Nishat; and Suhail Afzal Bhat, son of Mohammad Afzal, resident of Pahloo Brein.
Police said the investigation in the case is ongoing.
