Nomadic woman dies after sexual assault, 4 held

The police have arrested four individuals following the death of a nomadic woman in her 40s, who succumbed to severe injuries allegedly sustained during a sexual assault on the outskirts of Srinagar.

The incident, which occurred near Water Works Road in Nishat, has sparked widespread outrage across Kashmir, prompting political leaders to call for stringent action against the accused.

According to the Srinagar police, they acted swiftly upon receiving reports of an attempted sexual assault. The victim was transported to a hospital but was declared dead upon arrival due to her grievous injuries. Following the investigation, the police identified and arrested four suspects: Suhail Bashir Bhat from Sumbal, Bandipora, and three residents of Srinagar—Adil Ali Bhat, Firdous Ahmad Rather, and Suhail Afzal Bhat, son of Mohammad Afzal. The police confirmed that all suspects were apprehended in a decisive operation, and further investigations are ongoing.

Political leaders have expressed their shock and condemnation of the incident. Mehbooba Mufti, Chief of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and former Chief Minister, described the alleged rape and tragic death of the tribal woman as ‘deeply shocking’.

Sajad Lone, Handwara MLA, condemned the act as ‘barbaric’ and demanded stringent punishment and a fast-track trial for the culprits.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Chairman of the Hurriyat Conference, along with members of the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema Jammu & Kashmir (MMU), expressed their concern over the incident. They urged authorities to ensure swift and exemplary punishment for the offenders and called for a collective reflection on societal values.

“This act of barbarity is not just a crime against an individual, it is a painful reflection of the deepening moral and spiritual crisis engulfing our society. The unchecked spread of obscenity and vulgarity through digital media, the rampant abuse of alcohol and drugs, and the growing culture of corruption and greed have severely weakened the ethical foundations of our people. The moral compass that once guided society is eroding before our eyes,” said a statement issued by Mirwaiz’s office.

NC spokesperson Imran Nabi echoed the sentiment, stating that the accused must face the sternest legal consequences.