Probe launched into allegations of civilians’ ill-treatment during anti-terror Ops

Srinagar, Nov 21: Following the allegations of alleged ill treatment of civilians during the anti-terror operation in Kishtwar, Army on Thursday launched investigation to ascertain the facts in the incident.
In a post on X, White Knight Corps Spokesman said that based on specific intelligence about the move of a group of terrorists in the Kishtwar Sector, an operation was launched by Rashtriya Rifles on 20 November 2024.”
“There are some reports on the alleged ill treatment of civilians during the conduct of the operation. An investigation is being launched to ascertain the facts. Necessary follow up action will be ensured,” he said.
The spokesman further said that further move of the group of terrorists is being monitored.
Earlier four civilians of Kuath village were allegedly tortured by the Chas Army camp of Mughal Maidan tehsil in Kishtwar district. After the incident, local expressed strong resentment against the Army.
Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General M V Suchindra Kumar on Monday reviewed the security situation and counter-terror grid in Kishtwar.
Earlier on Nov 18, Northern Command Commander, Lt Gen Suchindra Kumar accompanied by GOC, White Knight Corps and GOC CIF(D) visited Kishtwar to review the prevailing security situation.
The Army Commander was briefed on operational preparedness and ongoing operations.
He also commended the troops for their unwavering commitment and exhorted all ranks to maintain exemplary professionalism in conduct of operations.
The move came after Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level meeting of senior civil, police officials and DCs, SSPs of Jammu division to review the progress of development projects and security situation.
Pertinent to mention here,on Nov 07, terrorists shot dead two Village Defence Guards (VDG’s) in Munzla Dhar forests of Kishtwar after both were kidnapped from a nearby forest area.
The slain VDG’s were identified as Nazir Ahmed S/O Mohd Khalil and Kuldeep Kumar S/O Amar Chand, both residents of Ohli Kuntwara, Kishtwar.