Kathua SSP Suspends 8 Cops Following Attack on Kerala Preachers
Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir: Eight police personnel, including a Sub-Inspector, have been suspended in Kathua district following an attack on a vehicle carrying religious preachers from Kerala. The suspensions came after a video of the incident went viral on social media, showing the police officers failing to prevent the assault.
The incident occurred in the Juthana area under the Rajbagh Police Station in Kathua. A group of men, allegedly accusing the preachers of illegal conversion, attacked the vehicle with sticks. The viral video apparently showed police officers present at the scene but not intervening to stop the assailants.
Kathua Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mohita Sharma ordered the suspension of the eight officers for negligence of duty. Authorities have registered a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the law, including provisions of the Arms Act. One suspect has been arrested, and a search is underway to apprehend the remaining individuals involved in the attack. The prime accused has been identified as Ravindra Singh Thela. Police reports indicate that all attackers have several prior criminal cases registered against them.
According to police reports, the accused claimed the preachers had come to Kathua to convert poor people in the area. Ravindra Singh Thela, the prime accused, was previously involved in an assault on a Dainik Jagran reporter, Rakesh Sharma, on April 24 during a protest organized by BJP's Kathua unit.
The incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the safety of religious minorities in the region. The police department has assured a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter. Authorities are also reviewing security protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. The swift action of suspending the negligent officers underscores the commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
The incident occurs amidst heightened attention to law and order in the region. Just recently, in Anantnag district, a man was arrested for impersonating a senior police officer, further highlighting the need for vigilance and integrity within the police force.
