Auto Driver Killed in Doda Police Firing; Officials Cite Accidental Discharge
A 27-year-old autorickshaw driver was killed in a police firing incident in Jammu's Doda district early on July 17, sparking protests and a mobile internet suspension by authorities. Police sources say the driver, identified as Arif Hussain, was caught in a scuffle when a constable's weapon accidentally discharged.
Hussain, a resident of Cheeka village in Doda, had been hired by several men to drive them to a tourist spot in Bhaderwah. While returning, police stopped the vehicle at a checkpoint set up following an alert about possible cattle smuggling in the area, according to sources in the police department.
During the stop, officials allege that some of the passengers, who had prior cases of cattle smuggling, attempted to attack the police personnel and snatch their weapons. In the ensuing scuffle, a constable's automatic weapon discharged accidentally, striking Hussain. He was declared dead on arrival at a local hospital.
The incident has led to widespread protests in Doda and the neighbouring town of Bhaderwah, with demonstrators demanding justice. In response, the district administration suspended mobile internet services to prevent the spread of what they termed 'rumours and inflammatory content'.
Hussain is survived by his pregnant wife and a three-year-old son. The family has not yet received an official statement from the police regarding the circumstances of his death.
The police have not released an official statement as of now, and investigations are ongoing. The incident raises questions about the use of force and the adherence to constitutional procedures during law enforcement operations.
