Tangmarg, Jun 12 (KNO): Lawyers in Tangmarg on Friday staged a protest and observed a pen-down strike, alleging that an advocate was manhandled by the Station House Officer (SHO) of Police Station Kunzer and demanding strict action.
As per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), while the legal fraternity sought accountability and a transparent investigation, police said a detailed inquiry headed by a gazetted officer has been ordered to examine the allegations and establish the facts.
The controversy stems from an incident linked to the execution of a court-ordered status quo directive in Dhobiwan on June 10.
On Friday, members of the legal fraternity of Tangmarg observed a pen down strike and staged protests against the SHO of Police Station Kunzer over the alleged manhandling of Advocate Rafi Uz Zaman Kirmani, while the police maintained that a detailed inquiry has already been initiated to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.
The protesting advocates abstained from court work and raised slogans against the SHO Kunzer, strongly condemning what they described as the arbitrary use of force against their colleague.
They demanded a fair and impartial investigation and strict action against those found responsible.
The lawyers said any assault or misconduct against members of the Bar was unacceptable and stressed that the dignity and independence of the legal profession must be protected.
They urged the authorities to ensure transparency in the inquiry and fix accountability without delay.
Meanwhile, presenting its version of events, Police said the incident had its origins on June 10 in Dhobiwan village, where a police party from Police Station Kunzer was executing a status quo order issued by the Judicial Magistrate First Class, Tangmarg. During the course of the operation, legal and preventive proceedings were initiated in accordance with law.
According to the police statement, an altercation subsequently took place inside Police Station Kunzer involving an advocate and police personnel, following which allegations were raised regarding the conduct of police officials during the incident.
"In view of the concerns expressed and in order to ensure complete transparency, fairness and objectivity, SSP Baramulla has directed a detailed inquiry into the entire sequence of events," the statement said, adding that the probe has been entrusted to a gazetted officer.
Police said the inquiry would examine all aspects of the incident, including the conduct of all persons involved, the circumstances leading to the registration of the case, and allegations relating to misconduct or use of force.
Statements of all concerned persons will be recorded and all available evidence examined during the course of the probe.
Jammu and Kashmir Police reiterated its commitment to the rule of law and respect for all stakeholders, including members of the legal fraternity.
It said that if any lapse, misconduct or deviation from established procedures by police personnel is established during the inquiry, appropriate action would be taken strictly in accordance with law and accountability ensured.
Police clarified that the investigation into the registered case and the departmental inquiry would proceed independently on their respective merits—(KNO)