Jammu NIA court frames charges in 2023 Dhangri attack

A special NIA court in Jammu has framed charges against two accused in the terror attack at Dhangri village in Rajouri on January 1, 2023. Both the accused had allegedly provided logistical help to the ultras behind the gruesome attack.

After hearing both the sides, Special Judge NIA Sandeep Gandotra framed charges against Nisar Ahmed alias Haji Nisar and Mushtaq Hussain alias Chacha.

The judge observed that allegations against the accused are very serious and there is sufficient material on record to show prima facie that they — in furtherance of criminal conspiracy — not only harboured the terrorists and gave them food and shelter but they also acted as guide and helped the terrorists, involved in the gruesome massacre at Dhangri, in reaching the hideout.

Both the accused were in constant touch with terrorist for approximately three months and did not tell anybody about them despite getting many opportunities. The court observed that they also utilised the services of a minor for their illegal activities.

The accused are lodged at Central Jail Kot Bhalwal at Jammu and were asked in presence of their counsels, through virtual mode whether they plead guilty or claim to be tried. The accused pleaded not guilty and claimed to be tried.

It was on January 1, 2023, heavily armed terrorists entered Dhangri and shot the members of the Hindu community after identifying them. The involvement of LeT surfaced in the crime. — OC