Shutdown due to civilian ‘death’ during anti-militancy operation hits life in J&K’s Chenab Valley

Normal life was affected in Doda and Kishtwar districts of the Chenab Valley on Saturday (July 18, 2026) due to a shutdown to protest the killing of a civilian allegedly during an anti-militancy operation by the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG).

Most shops and private businesses remained closed in Bhaderwah and Doda towns as residents responded to an appeal by local religious leaders. Arif Hussain, 30, a driver by profession, died allegedly of “gunshot injuries” during a police operation along the Jaie-Gandoh road, 35 km from Bhaderwah town. Around 11:30 p.m., a police team spotted the youth in the area.

“An FIR must be registered and the incident must be followed by a fair and impartial investigation. No one is above the law. Those found responsible should be held accountable and the victim’s family must get justice,” said Doda lawmaker Mehraj Malik.

According to the victim’s family, Hussian went on a picnic. Local residents took to the streets against the killing and demanded an investigation and justice for the family. The victim is survived by a pregnant wife and a four-year-old son.

The police have not yet commented on the circumstances under which the man was killed. Two policemen were also reportedly injured in the incident.

Kashmir chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said such incidents, including the recent killing of Rashid Ahmad Mughal in Ganderbal, “were against all norms of human and civil rights and laws”.

“They are fueling fear and mistrust. The authorities should immediately investigate, hold accountable, publicize the findings and punish the perpetrators,” Mirwaiz said.

Published – 19 Jul 2026 0:47 AM IST