Judicial inquiry launched into Kulgam brothers' deaths

The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced a judicial inquiry into the recent deaths of two brothers and the disappearance of another local from Kulgam district. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chowdhary made the announcement during a visit to the families of the victims in the Devsar area on March 18, 2025. Chowdhary, along with officials, met with the families to express condolences and understand their concerns. He stated that the families want to know the truth behind these tragic events. In addition to the inquiry, the government is providing financial assistance to the families and will employ three women from the victim families to help with their livelihoods. The deaths have deeply affected the local Gujjar community in Kulgam. Adviser to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the case. He expressed concern about the alarming trend of youth going missing and later being found dead. The three missing youths, Mohammad Showkat Bajad, Riyaz Ahmad Bajad, and Mukhtar Ahmad, disappeared on February 13. The bodies of Showkat and Riyaz were recovered last week, while Mukhtar remains missing. A post-mortem report suggested drowning as a possible cause of death, but residents are dissatisfied with the police investigation and have called for a stronger inquiry. This incident has led to protests from local families demanding a magisterial probe. Lawmakers from various political parties have also expressed their concern in the Assembly, calling for accountability and action against a police officer involved in the protests.