Jammu and Kashmir is not just defined by its stunning landscapes, but by its resilient people—people who have shed blood for this land and stood unwaveringly for the idea of India. Among them, the Gujjar-Bakarwal community holds a special place. Whether fighting alongside security forces during the peak of insurgency or serving in the armed forces, they have contributed immensely to the country’s peace and security.
Even today, young Gujjars and Bakarwals continue to join the police, army, and paramilitary services with pride. Yet, disturbingly, this community now finds itself at the receiving end of suspicion and criminalization.
The recent killing of Mohammad Parvez in Jammu has raised serious concerns. He was reportedly shot by police and later labeled a drug trafficker. But even if there were allegations, shouldn’t due process and rule of law prevail? In a democracy, it is the courts that decide guilt—not law enforcement in the field. The right to life and a fair trial are enshrined in our Constitution.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police, an institution known for bravery and sacrifice, must also be vigilant against abuse of power by a few individuals. There is growing concern that in the pursuit of rewards or headlines, some officers may be undermining public trust. What’s particularly alarming is the perception—and perception matters—that tribal youth are being disproportionately targeted in police actions.
Districts like Jammu, Samba, and Kathua have witnessed multiple controversial encounters in recent years. These are not merely isolated incidents anymore—they suggest the need for impartial scrutiny and transparent investigations to restore confidence in law enforcement institutions.
The silence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on these matters has been noted with disappointment by many. An independent, time-bound investigation—ideally by the CBI or a judicial commission—into Parvez’s death is essential to ensure accountability. The bereaved family deserves not only a fair probe but also relief in the form of compensation and a government job to help them rebuild their lives.
Further, a review of past encounters involving tribal youth must be carried out to ensure that justice has been done—and seen to be done.
At the same time, this is a moment to ask hard questions of our political class. Where are the leaders who once walked with the Gujjar-Bakarwal community, shared their struggles, and earned their trust? Why does it fall only on grassroots activists like Talib Choudhary and Guftar Ahmed Choudhary, or lawyers like Sheikh Shakeel Ahmed and Zulqarnain Choudhary, to speak out for their people?
Their consistent advocacy highlights a larger truth: silence from those in power only deepens marginalization.
Across the country, we are witnessing worrying trends—summary demolitions in one region, mob violence in another, and rising instances of encounter killings. This growing acceptance of extra-legal measures chips away at the foundations of democracy. If not urgently addressed, it will not stop with one community or region—it will threaten all those who lack privilege or power.
Today, it is Mohammad Parvez. Tomorrow, it could be anyone.
If we don’t speak now, we may one day find ourselves in a country where silence is the only option left.DD
