JAMMU: The Indian Army on Friday initiated an inquiry following allegations by an IGNOU professor who claimed he was assaulted by troops during a vehicle check in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district late Thursday night.
The professor, Liaqat Ali, reportedly sustained head injuries during the incident, which occurred near the border village of Laam in the Nowshera sector. A video showing a visibly bleeding Ali and a heated exchange between his relatives and Army personnel has since circulated on social media.
In a statement, the Army acknowledged the incident and said that troops had been conducting vehicle checks based on intelligence about possible terrorist movement in the sensitive area. “Preliminary information suggests that when stopped, the individual attempted to snatch weapons from the soldiers on duty, leading to a scuffle. However, an inquiry has been initiated,” the spokesperson said.
The statement further emphasized that any misconduct by personnel would be met with strict action in accordance with the law. “The Army remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and discipline in all counter-terror operations. We urge the public to continue cooperating with the Army to ensure security in the region,” it added.
According to reports, the incident occurred while Professor Ali was returning to Kalakote with his brothers and relatives after attending his sister’s pre-wedding ceremony.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti condemned the incident, sharing the video on her X (formerly Twitter) account. “This shocking act has shattered the faith of common citizens, particularly painful as the victim’s family has proudly served in the Indian Army,” she said, urging senior Army officials to take swift and strict action. “Such individuals damage the reputation of a respected institution through their unacceptable and high-handed behavior.”
