Azad Recalls Past Action Against Police in Fake Encounter Case, Stresses Accountability in Security Operations

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has said that while he granted full operational freedom to security forces during his tenure, he maintained a strict line against human rights violations.

Speaking to the media in response to a question about the recent police killing of Tawi resident Parvez Ahmed in Jammu, Azad said, “As Chief Minister, I always gave security forces a free hand to carry out operations against militants. But at the same time, I was clear that human rights must not be violated.”

Azad highlighted a specific case during his tenure, when three labourers were abducted from Lal Chowk and later killed in a staged encounter. “In that incident, I took strict action. Thirteen personnel were held accountable, including a Superintendent of Police (SP) and an Inspector,” he said.

He emphasized that while fighting militancy was essential for restoring peace and order, it should never come at the cost of innocent lives. “I believe in a balanced approach, security must be strong, but so must be the respect for human rights,” Azad added.

His remarks come amid growing concerns and criticism over the killing of Parvez Ahmed, a youth from Tawi area of Jammu, in a recent police operation. The incident has sparked demands for accountability and transparency in police actions.