‘Rape, murder’ of minor girl sparks outrage in Kashmir, one arrested

The accused is a resident of Galwanpora. Police said the motive remains under investigation. File image for representation only. | Photo credit: The Hindu

J&K Police on Monday (May 25, 2026) arrested a local youth amid public outcry over the alleged rape and murder of a minor who went missing on May 23 in Budgam in central Kashmir.

“Over the past 36 hours, we have interrogated several suspects and it has emerged that a local is most likely responsible. After a while, one of the suspects finally confessed his involvement in the crime,” said Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Budgam, KK Hari Prasad.

The accused is a resident of Galwanpora. “The motive of the crime remains under investigation and forensic and investigation procedures are continuing,” the SSP said.

The victim, who is believed to be around 12 years old, went missing on Saturday (May 23, 2026) and her body was found a few meters from her home on Sunday (May 24, 2026). A copy of the Koran and her shoes were also found lying near the crime scene. The victim is the daughter of an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) serving with the J&K Police.

Strong reactions

The incident sparked outrage and strong reactions from regional leaders and civil society groups who sought strict action against those involved in the crime.

“If such a heinous crime can be committed on the daughter of a police officer, who among the general public here in Budgam is really safe? The CCTV cameras at the place where her body was discovered, specifically in front of the house where she was found, were deliberately broken. I await action against this man; we don’t know if he committed these acts under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” said People’s Democratic Party leader I. Demokratift.

Ruling National Conference (NC) Chairman and Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah visited the victim’s family on Monday (May 25, 2026). “The brutal killing of a 12-year-old girl in Galwanpora, Budgam has shocked the conscience of our society. Such incidents are deeply disturbing and have left people in grief and outrage. Our children deserve safety, dignity and protection. The pain of this tragedy is felt by every sensitive heart today,” said MP Ruhullah.

Call for a quick probe

The NC leader, also a prominent Shiite cleric, urged the authorities “to ensure a swift, transparent and time-bound investigation so that the truth is revealed and those responsible are brought to justice according to law.”

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdulla said the tragic killing was “both shocking and deeply disheartening”.

“While the relevant agencies are investigating the circumstances surrounding her murder, it is also appropriate that we reflect on where we are headed as a society when our young children are not safe,” Mr Abdullah said.

Mr Abdullah said his government would support the agencies as much as possible “to ensure that those found guilty face exemplary punishment”.

Published – 25 May 2026 22:16 IST