Local Committee Demands Stern Action Against the Accused
Srinagar, May 5,: A horrifying incident involving the alleged rape and murder of a nomadic woman in Srinagar’s Nishat area has shocked the local community and sparked widespread condemnation. The woman, (name withheld), wife of Mohammad Rafiq, originally from Reasi and presently residing in the Nishat area, was reportedly assaulted by a group of drunk men near the Water Works Road on Sunday.
According to police at Nishat Police Station, information was received around 5 PM that several intoxicated individuals had attempted to rape the woman and left her critically injured. She was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital but was declared brought dead upon arrival. Acting swiftly on the information, police registered FIR No. 35/2025 under relevant sections of the law and initiated an investigation into the matter.
As part of the probe, four suspects have been detained for questioning. Their identities have been confirmed as residents of different areas in and around Nishat and Sumbal. Police sources say all individuals are currently under interrogation, and further action will follow based on the outcome of the investigation.
The accused has been identified as Suhail Bashir Bhat (23), son of Bashir Ahmad, resident of Asham Sumbal, Adil Ali Bhat (27), son of Ali Mohammad Bhat, resident of Zeethyar Nishat, Firdous Ahmad Rather (46), son of Ghulam Ahmad, resident of Zeethyar Nishat and Suhail Afzal Bhat (28), son of Mohammad Afzal Bhat, resident of Pahloo Brein Nishat.
The brutal nature of the crime has triggered massive outrage among residents, particularly in Gupkar Mohalla, where the local Intizamia Committee has strongly condemned the incident. In a statement, the committee demanded that the police act decisively and ensure that the culprits receive the harshest punishment under the law. “This heinous act has not only violated a woman’s dignity but has deeply wounded the conscience of the community. We demand immediate and exemplary justice,” the committee said.
Locals in the area have expressed fear and anger over the lack of regulation and safety, especially for vulnerable nomadic groups who often reside in temporary shelters.
Meanwhile, the police have assured that the case is being taken seriously and that justice will be delivered. [KNT]
