The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Jammu and Kashmir UT, strongly condemns the shocking and brutal incident in which a 55-year-old man, identified as Puran Chand S/O Dev Raj, resident of Ward No. 2, Devi Dwara Mandir, RS Pura, was allegedly set ablaze by a group of rivals near the Kot Bihari Faith Ring Road area today. This horrifying act, which claimed the life of an innocent resident, highlights a grave failure of law enforcement and administrative machinery in preventing such violence and ensuring justice. According to initial reports, local residents found the victim engulfed in flames and immediately informed the police. The body was shifted to GMC Jammu for post-mortem, and three individuals have been detained for questioning. Despite this, the investigation remains unclear, and crucial details regarding the motive remain concealed.
The BSP expressed deep concern over the utter negligence and indifference of senior departmental officers, including the RS Pura Irrigation Department’s Executive Engineer (Exen), the Chief Engineer, the Irrigation Minister, and the MLA, who have not bothered to visit the bereaved family. Their silence and absence during such a tragic time not only intensify the family’s suffering but also raise serious questions about the system’s commitment to the welfare and safety of common citizens, particularly those belonging to marginalized communities.
Darshan Rana, President, BSP Jammu and Kashmir UT, issued a strong statement condemning the incident, stating that this is not merely a murder but an assault on human dignity and the rule of law. He questioned why the concerned officials have not visited the family or offered support, calling their silence “deafening.” He demanded immediate monetary compensation and employment under SRO 43 to the eligible family member, without delay. Furthermore, he insisted on a transparent and fair investigation into the alleged torture and circumstances that led to the death of the deceased Class IV employee, ensuring that the perpetrators face exemplary punishment.
The BSP calls upon the Lieutenant Governor’s administration and the Jammu and Kashmir Police to expedite the investigation, ensure that evidence is protected from tampering, and provide comprehensive relief to the victim’s family, including financial support and job assistance. The party assures the public that it will stand firmly with the family and the local community until justice is delivered. Any attempt to delay, dilute, or suppress the truth will be met with intensified protests across the Union Territory.
