Indian troops, in their fresh act of state terrorism, martyred three Kashmiri youth in a fake encounter in Kishtwar district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and later mutilated their bodies, marking yet another grim episode in the territory.According to Kashmir Media Service, the youths had been taken into custody during an ongoing search operation in the Chatroo area of the district that had continued for several days.

They were subsequently killed in a staged encounter and their bodies burned using chemical substances, rendering them unrecognizable. Reportedly, a chemical compound, identified as RD 2PNG, was used, which is capable of igniting structures and anyone inside within seconds. Following the killings, additional troops were deployed to the Chatroo area, and all entry and exit points were sealed, further tightening the occupation’s grip on the local population. This is not an isolated incident.

Over the years, numerous cases have surfaced in which Kashmiri youth were killed in fake encounters, with their bodies disfigured through chemical substances. Kashmir watchers argue that so-called professional army of the world’s largest democracy has repeatedly resorted to such tactics in IIOJK. The demolition of residential houses, custodial killings, and mutilation of bodies of the Kashmiris engaged in a just struggle have, they say, become recurring features — stark stains on the face of Indian democracy. 

For the past 78 years, India has maintained its control over Jammu and Kashmir against the wishes of the Kashmiri people through an overwhelming military presence. While New Delhi projects itself as the world’s largest democracy, critics maintain Indian troops are committing war crimes in the territory. Despite prolonged military operations and stringent measures, Indian forces have failed to quell the Kashmiri people’s aspiration for self-determination.

Unable to confront Kashmiri youth directly, the occupation forces detain or abduct them and later kill them in staged encounters. Observers maintain that India is fighting a losing battle in IIOJK. Despite harsh crackdowns and brutal measures, the resolve of the Kashmiri people remains unbroken. The continued reports of staged encounters and desecration of bodies, they argue, further deepen alienation and underscore the urgent need for accountability and a just resolution to the longstanding dispute.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)