Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against multiple Army personnel, including a commanding officer, for allegedly storming a police station in Kishtwar district, assaulting police officers, and causing extensive damage to government property. The incident occurred on Wednesday after a police party intercepted and seized a private vehicle belonging to an Army official for traffic violations, according to officials who spoke on Thursday.
Details of the Attack at Atholi Police Station
The FIR, registered at Atholi police station, states that the Station House Officer (SHO), Inspector Amrit Kotach, was away at a meeting when he received a call about a 'criminal conspiracy' and violent assault unfolding at the station. The complaint alleges that the attack was carried out under the direct instructions of Commanding Officer, 17 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), N Arun Gandhi.
Approximately 30 to 40 personnel from 17 RR, Camp Kijayee, led by Major Vikash Sharma and Naib Subedar Shankar Gurkhe, launched a 'pre-planned' assault after scaling the main gate and boundary wall of the police station. They were armed with lathis, iron rods, and other weapons, the SHO said. 'Their common intention was to cause fatal injuries and kill the police personnel on duty,' Kotach stated, adding that he rushed back and was allegedly physically assaulted by Major Sharma.
Injuries and Damage Caused
According to the FIR, the Army personnel tore Kotach's uniform and also assaulted Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Vijay Kumar Bhagat, who had arrived at the scene. Special Police Officer Suresh Kumar was struck on the neck with the butt of a service rifle, resulting in serious injuries. Several other police personnel on duty sustained injuries during the 'unprovoked assault.'
The attackers also assaulted the assistant regional transport officer (ARTO) of Kishtwar and his personal security officers inside the police station. They vandalised the official vehicle of the ARTO, vehicles of the SDPO and the SHO, and broke down the main gate, causing extensive damage to government and public property.
Legal Provisions and Accused Named
The FIR cites offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including unlawful assembly, rioting, house-trespass, voluntarily causing hurt and grievous hurt, assault on public servants, attempt to murder, criminal intimidation, mischief causing damage to government property, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. Named accused include Colonel Gandhi, Major Sharma, Naib Subedar Gurkhe, Sepoys Raj Kumar, Rahul Kumar, Anoop Singh, Omkar Ingale, and unidentified personnel of the 17 RR camp.
Army's Response
When contacted, Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said the matter is under examination through appropriate institutional mechanisms. 'The Indian Army will extend full cooperation in the legal process. Appropriate actions will be taken based on the outcome of the joint investigation. At this stage, it would be premature to comment further while the investigations are in progress,' he stated.
