Kashmir Impulse Desk

Jammu, April 3

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday ordered a time-bound magisterial inquiry into a fatal encounter in Ganderbal district that has sparked competing claims from security forces and the family of the man who was killed.

The incident occurred in the Arhama area during the night of March 31 and April 1, when the Army said it had carried out a joint cordon-and-search operation based on specific intelligence and killed a militant. 

The family of the deceased, however, has disputed that account, saying he was a civilian with no links to militancy.

The case has drawn widespread attention across Kashmir, with political leaders and civil society groups calling for an independent and transparent investigation.

In a statement posted on social media, LG Sinha said the inquiry would be “thorough and impartial” and would examine all aspects of the episode to ensure justice.

According to an order issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department on April 2, the District Magistrate of Ganderbal has been directed to conduct the inquiry and submit a report within seven days. 

The inquiry is tasked with establishing the facts and circumstances surrounding the death of the man, identified as Raashid Ahmad Mughal of the Lar area of Ganderbal.

The directive followed mounting pressure from political leaders, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who represents Ganderbal in the legislative assembly. 

CM Omar called for a transparent and time-bound investigation, saying the family’s claims should not be dismissed without scrutiny.

Other leaders, including People’s Democratic Party President Mehbooba Mufti of and People’s Conference President Sajad Lone, also urged authorities to establish the facts and ensure accountability.

The decision to initiate an inquiry was welcomed by a range of political and religious figures, including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Iltija Mufti, who expressed hope that the process would help restore public confidence.

Officials said the findings of the inquiry would be submitted to the Home Department for further action.