Rising Concerns Over Disappearances and Mysterious Deaths in Tribal Community of Kashmir

Kulgam, Indian-administered Kashmir — The tragic deaths of two brothers from the Gujjar community, Showkat Ahmad, 18, and Riyaz Ahmad, 25, have sparked outrage and sorrow in their local community. Their bodies were discovered shortly after they had gone missing while attending a wedding in the Kulgam district. These events have reignited deep-seated concerns regarding the safety of residents in the region, where disappearances have increasingly become a disturbing trend.

The official narrative presented by law enforcement claims that the two brothers drowned in a canal approximately 10 kilometers from their home, with postmortem examinations suggesting potential suicide. However, their father, Mohamad Sadiq, and many members of the Gujjar community challenge this account, advocating instead for a thorough investigation into their deaths which they suspect involve foul play. Relying on the longstanding concerns about law enforcement in this region, Sadiq is resolute in his belief that his sons were victims of a violent act rather than accidental drownings.

In the wake of this devastating loss, sentiments of anger and mistrust towards authorities have intensified. The pattern of disappearances in Kashmir, especially among the Gujjar community, has highlighted a significant human rights concern. Since armed conflict began in the region in 1989, thousands of individuals are reported to have gone missing, an issue that has drawn international attention and condemnation.

On February 13, the brothers, accompanied by a friend, Mukhtar Ahmad, left to attend a wedding but tragically never arrived. Their family’s frantic search culminated in the discovery of their bodies weeks later, prompting protests and calls for a proper investigation. The growing tension reached boiling point when reports surfaced of police misconduct during protests that arose in response to their deaths, further amplifying calls for accountability from both the community and political leaders.

Days after their bodies were located, fresh reports of additional disappearances among the Gujjar population sparked fear and outrage, particularly given the community’s history of violence and marginalization. The recent uptick in incidents in the area, including the mysterious deaths of other young individuals, has led many to question the government’s narrative and the accountability of security forces.

The families of Riyaz and Showkat remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice. They insist on an independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding their deaths, echoing a longstanding demand among communities across Kashmir for protection and respect from those in power. The considerable grief felt by the Ahmad family and broader community serves as a poignant reminder of the personal toll of ongoing political strife in this historically rich yet troubled region.

As the Gujjar community continues to seek justice and truth, the stories of missing persons and the calls for accountability exemplify the pressing need for reform and dialogue in the region, underscoring the enduring hope for a peaceful and just resolution.

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