Fri Apr 18 15:20:23 UTC 2025: **Army Officer Investigated After Alleged Assault on Civilian in Kashmir**
Srinagar, Kashmir – April 18, 2025 – An Indian Army officer is under investigation following allegations that he assaulted a civilian during a search operation in Rajouri, Pir Panjal valley on Thursday evening. Professor Liaqat Ali, an Assistant Professor at IGNOU Delhi, claims he was beaten with a service rifle by a Company Commander-level officer after being stopped at a checkpoint. Ali sustained head injuries requiring stitches and alleges the assault occurred after he showed the officer his identification card. A video of Ali, bleeding from head wounds, has gone viral on social media.
The Indian Army has launched an inquiry and admits that soldiers from the 58 Rashtriya Rifles were conducting searches in the area based on intelligence about potential terrorist activity. However, their statement claims Ali attempted to snatch a soldier’s weapon, leading to a scuffle. The Army insists that any personnel found guilty will face strict action.
The incident has sparked outrage, with former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti calling it “deeply disturbing” and urging swift action. She highlighted the irony of the victim’s family having a history of military service. Ali himself expressed his dismay, stating that the actions of a few bad officers are damaging the reputation of the Indian Army. The investigation is ongoing.
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