Srinagar, India – A case of attempted murder and dacoity has been filed against three Army Lieutenant Colonels and 13 others for their alleged involvement in a violent attack on the Kupwara police station. The incident occurred during the night of May 28 and 29, following the questioning of a Territorial Army jawan by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in connection with a suspected drug case. A group of armed and uniformed personnel from the 160 Territorial Army, accompanied by senior Indian Army officials, reportedly raided the police station in a disturbing episode captured on video.
The FIR states that Army Lieutenant Colonels Ankit Sood, Rajiv Chauhan, and Nikhil led the armed group in forcibly entering the police station premises. They proceeded to viciously assault the police personnel present using rifle butts, sticks, and kicks. The situation escalated as the Army personnel brandished their weapons, seized mobile phones from the injured police officers, and even abducted a police constable before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, swift action by senior police officers led to the rescue of the targeted police personnel and the initiation of legal proceedings against the perpetrators.
The FIR lists various charges under the Indian Penal Code, including obstructing a public servant in the discharge of public functions, causing hurt to deter a public servant from duty, attempted murder, wrongful confinement, and punishment for rioting. Additionally, the accused face charges of unlawful assembly, robbery, dacoity, and kidnapping under the Arms Act. The Kupwara deputy superintendent of police is currently leading the investigation to uncover the full extent of the crime and bring the accused to justice.
In response to the incident, a Srinagar-based defense spokesperson downplayed reports of an altercation between police and Army personnel, stating that minor differences had been resolved amicably. However, officials are committed to fully investigating the matter and holding those involved accountable for their actions. This incident highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining discipline within all branches of the armed forces.