Family Claims Police Attempted False Case Against Youth Who Testified in Killing

Baramulla, April 1, KNT: The father of slain Baramulla youth Tahir Ahmed Sofi has alleged that police attempted to implicate a young man who had testified as a witness in his son’s killing. The family said the youth, identified as Javid Hussain Najar of Mohalla Qazi Hamam, was detained despite having already recorded his statement before a court regarding the March 5 shooting.

Ghulam Rasool Sofi, father of the deceased, said the arrest caused concern among locals who believed the witness was being targeted. He said police had booked the youth under Section 170 of the CrPC but released him after public demonstrations in the area. Sofi reiterated that Javid Hussain had voluntarily appeared before the court and cooperated fully with the inquiry into the death of Tahir Ahmed Sofi, who the family alleges was killed by personnel of 46 RR.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Mansoor Qadri, who is leading the investigation into the killing, declined to comment on the circumstances surrounding the arrest. He said his role is restricted to recording witness statements and that he could not speak on police procedures.

Police, for their part, stated that the arrest was made in connection with a bailable offence and that the youth was released as a goodwill gesture. The brief detention, however, triggered strong reaction among locals who questioned the timing and motive behind the action. [KNT]