Constable suspended, DSP under inquiry for ‘assaulting’ VDG member

A selection grade constable of the Jammu and Kashmir Police has been suspended after allegedly assaulting a Village Defense Guard (VDG) member in Doda district. Additionally, an inquiry has been ordered into the conduct of a deputy superintendent of police (DSP).

The incident occurred after VDG member Balbir Singh fired two rounds in the air upon detecting suspicious movement in Pernote village, Premnagar area, a day before Independence Day. The following day, Singh was summoned to the Premnagar police outpost, where he was reportedly beaten severely, primarily by selection grade constable Mohammad Zia.

Doda Senior Superintendent of Police Sandeep Mehta took note of the alleged misconduct and ordered immediate action. “Zia has been placed under suspension with immediate effect and attached to District Police Lines, pending further proceedings,” a police spokesperson said.

He said a departmental inquiry has been ordered, and a senior officer has been appointed as the inquiry officer to investigate the incident comprehensively. “The inquiry report is to be submitted within a fortnight,” the spokesperson added.

“In addition, the conduct of the then SHO, Thathri Police Station, DSP (P) Afeer Jaleel, will also be thoroughly examined as part of the enquiry. The inquiry officer has been directed to assess his role and submit specific findings for further necessary action” the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, Balbir Singh was admitted to the Government Medical College in Doda where he was under treatment for his injuries.

The Village Defense Guards are considered to the frontline defence against terrorists, specifically in remote areas of Jammu region where presence of security forces is scant. In the past, VDGs have killed many trained terrorists with their .303 rifles. Recently, many VDGs have been equipped with semi-automatic weapons amid rising security threats.