Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar (DD) Tensions flared at the Office of the Superintending Engineer, Public Works (R&B) Circle Srinagar South, after an incident involving alleged unauthorized entry, verbal threats, and intimidation was reported on June 26.
According to official sources, the incident began when a contractor applicant, identified as Fayaz Hussain Rather, visited the office to enquire about the status of his Contractor Registration Card. Despite being informed that his application was under due process and scheduled for review on June 27, Rather reportedly engaged in aggressive behaviour and used inappropriate language toward the office staff.
Later that day, the situation escalated when Rather returned, accompanied by Mr. Aijaz Hussain Rather, who identified himself as a District Development Council (DDC) Member from Balhama, along with two other individuals, one of whom was reportedly carrying a firearm.
As per the complaint filed by the department, the group entered the office without official authorization, allegedly disrupted work, and intimidated staff members. The presence of an armed individual inside a government office raised serious concerns about staff safety and workplace security.
Before leaving the premises, the group allegedly made remarks that were interpreted as coercive and demanding in nature. The incident was formally reported to Police Station Rajbagh the same evening at around 10:30 PM.
Officials from the PW(R&B) department described the event as a serious breach of workplace safety and professional conduct. “This has caused considerable distress among staff and interrupted regular office functioning,” a senior official stated on condition of anonymity.
The department has requested swift legal and administrative action to ensure accountability and prevent such occurrences in the future.
No official comment was available from the individuals named in the report at the time of filing this story. Police authorities have acknowledged receipt of the complaint and stated that the matter is under preliminary investigation.(DD)
