Police submit ATR in Katra landslide case

The J&K Police have submitted an Action Taken Report (ATR) before a local court in connection with the deaths of 35 pilgrims in a landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine on August 26.

The court of Sub-Judge (Judicial Magistrate First Class) Katra, Sidhant Vaid, had on October 16 directed the police to file the ATR. On the previous hearing held on October 30, the SHO of Bhawan Police Station had sought four weeks’ time to submit the report, following which the court granted three weeks.

The complaint, filed by Rohit Bali, seeks registration of an FIR against senior officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) for allegedly failing to suspend the pilgrimage despite the Meteorological Department’s warnings about severe weather conditions.

The tragedy occurred near Adhkuwari along the yatra route when heavy rains triggered a massive landslide, resulting in the death of 35 pilgrims.

According to the ATR, the police inquiry conducted so far has found no cognizable offence against the authorities. The report states that the investigation has not revealed any evidence indicating the involvement of Shrine Board officials in any punishable act. It also notes that the final report of the three-member committee constituted by the Lieutenant Governor—who is also the Chairman of the Shrine Board—on August 29 is still awaited.

The court has taken the ATR on record and listed the matter for arguments on December 6. Advocate Vishal Gupta appeared on behalf of the complainant.