SRINAGAR: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for a judicial inquiry, led by a sitting judge, into the unexplained deaths of two tribal youths in Kulgam, South Kashmir. This demand follows public protests and rising concerns over the incident.
Three nomadic men—Showkat Ahmad Bajad, his brother Riyaz Ahmad Bajad, and Mukhtar Ahmad—went missing on 13 February while travelling to a family event. Their families held protests, urging authorities to find them. Later, the bodies of Riyaz and Showkat were recovered from Veshow Nallah on separate days, raising further suspicion.
The discovery led to demonstrations, with protestors blocking the Srinagar-Jammu highway and demanding an investigation. Mukhtar Ahmad remains missing.
Gujjar-Bakerwal legislators raised the issue in the Legislative Assembly, calling for transparency. The PDP reiterated the need for an independent probe, citing possible foul play.
Senior police officials, including the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of South Kashmir Range, have assured the public of a fair investigation. Authorities are working to establish the cause of death and locate the missing individual.
