Investigation into Allegations of “Ill-Treatment” of Civilians | 23 Nov 2024

Why in News?

The Army initiated an investigation into allegations of “ill-treatment” of civilians during search operations for militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district.

Key Points

  • Launch of Operation:
    • The Rashtriya Rifles initiated an operation in the Kishtwar Sector, based on specific intelligence about terrorist movements.
    • The White Knight Corps confirmed the operation and ongoing monitoring of the terrorist group.
  • Allegations of Civilian Ill-Treatment:
    • Allegations surfaced regarding the ill-treatment of four men from Kuath village, who were reportedly called to an Army camp.
    • Sources suggest the allegations include accusations of torture in custody.
  • The Army announced an investigation to verify the claims and assured necessary follow-up actions.
  • Past Allegations:
    • In December 2023 three civilians were allegedly killed in custody in connection with a terror attack in Poonch.
    • Following an inquiry, lapses in personnel conduct were reported, and the involved Army unit was relocated out of the district.
    • This situation underscores ongoing tensions and challenges in managing counter-terrorism operations while addressing allegations of human rights violations.

The Rashtriya Rifles

  • It is a counter-insurgency force in India, formed in 1990, to deal with internal security in the Jammu and Kashmir region.
  • They maintain public order by drawing powers from the Armed Forces (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Powers Act, 1990 (AFSPA).
  • The force operates under the Ministry of Defence. The Indian Army describes RR as their "specialist elite force to combat insurgency".
  • The RR is headquartered at Northern Command in Udhampur and commanded by an Additional Director General of Rashtriya Rifles (ADG RR).