The Indian Army has initiated an investigation into allegations of mistreatment of civilians during an anti-militancy operation in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir.
The operation, conducted by the Rashtriya Rifles, began on November 20 based on intelligence about terrorist movement in the region. The Army’s White Knight Corps took to X to announce the inquiry. “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, and necessary follow-up action will be ensured,” read the post.
Reports suggest that four civilians detained for questioning in connection with a recent militant attack were allegedly tortured in custody. The allegations come shortly after Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, Northern Army Commander, reviewed the security situation in Kishtwar, a region that has seen a resurgence in militancy.
These developments follow a spate of militant attacks in Kishtwar this month. On November 10, a junior commissioned officer from the special forces was killed, and three soldiers were injured in an ambush in the Chas area. Just days earlier, on November 7, militants abducted and killed two civilians working as village defense guards in the upper reaches of the district.
The Army assured that the movements of terrorist groups in the area are being closely monitored.