The Army allegedly detains locals daily, with reports of five individuals being beaten in custody, claims the Kishtwar village sarpanch

Kishtwar Villagers Voice Concerns Over Alleged Army Detentions and Custodial Beatings

Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir – Residents of a remote village in Kishtwar district are raising alarms over frequent

detentions by the Army, claiming these actions are causing fear and unrest in the community. According to the

village sarpanch, five individuals were allegedly subjected to physical abuse while in custody, prompting calls for

accountability.

The sarpanch, speaking on behalf of the villagers, stated that these detentions have become a daily occurrence,

with locals being picked up without any explanation. "These actions are eroding trust between the community and

the authorities. While we understand the importance of security, such treatment cannot be justified," said the sarpanch.

Families of the detained individuals reported that their loved ones were taken for questioning related to security

operations in the area. However, they allege that the interrogations were accompanied by physical violence, leaving some

detainees with visible injuries.

A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, shared, "The fear is palpable. People avoid going out, even for essential

activities, as they fear being detained arbitrarily."

The Army has yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations, although sources suggest that the detentions are

part of routine counterinsurgency operations in the region. Officials have previously emphasized their commitment to conducting

operations with minimal disruption to civilian life and adhering to human rights standards.

Civil rights activists and local political leaders have condemned the reported incidents, urging a thorough and impartial investigation.

"If these allegations are true, they represent a grave violation of human rights," stated a prominent activist.

The district administration has assured villagers that their concerns will be addressed and has promised to liaise with the Army to

ensure fair treatment of all residents. The matter has also drawn the attention of regional political leaders, who are calling for measures

to rebuild trust and maintain peace in the area.

This incident underscores the delicate balance between maintaining security and safeguarding the rights and dignity of local communities

in conflict-sensitive regions.