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JAMMU: Authorities on Thursday ordered separate enquiries into the death of a man, Makhandin, after he was called for questioning by the Police in Kathua district.
In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer, (KNO) a Police spokesman said, “Makhandin was the nephew of Pak exfiltrated Terrorist Swar Din @ Swaru Gujjar, he is helping in the same group that conducted the Badnotta Army Convoy attack in July 2024 in which 4 Army Jawans were martyred.”
“It is the same group which led to the killing & martyrdom of HC Bashir in Kohag opertaion. Makhan had number of suspicious contacts in Pak and other foreign countries. There was no custodial torture or injury. He was questioned and then got exposed, went home and committed suicide,” the spokesman said.
After the news of the youth’s death broke out Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rakesh Manhas ordered a magisterial enquiry into the incident.
An official order which lies with KNO reads: “Anil Kumar, Tehsildar Lohai Malhar, has been appointed as the Inquiry Magistrate to investigate the case and ascertain the actual cause of death. He has been directed to submit a detailed report within five days.”
“The inquiry will involve recording statements from all relevant individuals and following all requisite legal procedures,” the order reads.
The District Magistrate has instructed the inquiry officer to ensure a comprehensive probe into the matter. Copies of the order have been sent to the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, the Senior Superintendent of Police Kathua, the Additional Deputy Commissioner Billawar, and the appointed Inquiry Magistrate for necessary action.
The order reads that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The Police spokesman said that the senior police officers have ordered a departmental inquiry which will be conducted by Shiv Kumar- DIG JSK Range.
“The enquiry officer has been directed to submit his report at the earliest to higher ups,” the spokesman said, adding that the public is requested to pay no heed to the rumors and co-operate with the Police.
He said that Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Operation Billawar Amir Iqbal, DySP Javaid Tabassum,SDPO Billawar Neeraj Padyar and the concerned SHO met the family members of the deceased and assured fair and transparent investigation.