J&K Administration Orders Magisterial Probe into Youth Death in Doda
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the death of a 30-year-old auto driver in the Bhaderwah area of Doda district, officials said on Monday. The incident, which occurred last Thursday night, has led to protests and a shutdown in Doda and Kishtwar districts, with mobile internet services suspended to prevent further unrest.
The magisterial probe was ordered by Doda District Magistrate Krishan Lal, two days after the police constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the case. An 'open' First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against unknown persons under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including attempted murder, voluntarily causing hurt to a public servant, assault on a public servant, and theft.
According to police, the deceased, identified as Arif Hussain of Cheeka village, was fatally shot during a scuffle between police personnel and alleged cattle smugglers in the Jai Valley near Bhaderwah. The police have not yet confirmed who fired the fatal shot, and the investigation is ongoing.
The administration has urged calm and assured that the magisterial inquiry will thoroughly examine the circumstances leading to the death. The family of the deceased has demanded a fair investigation and justice. The situation in the affected areas remains tense but under control, with security forces deployed to maintain order.