The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has issued a significant interim order in a controversial case related to the Kastigarh area of Doda district, staying the filing of a final chargesheet against female DDC member Santosh Devi and her son Swaran Veer Singh.
However, the court has allowed the police to continue the investigation.
The High Court’s vacation judge has issued notices to the Principal Secretary of the Home Department, the concerned Station House Officer (SHO) Doda, and the complainant, Hakam Chand, directing them to file their replies within four weeks.
The incident reportedly occurred on January 8, 2026, when the inauguration ceremony of the Suli-Jardan road was held in Kastigarh. A large number of locals, including DDC member Santosh Devi, were present at the event, and the DDC Chairperson was awaiting arrival. Meanwhile, Santosh Devi’s political opponent, Hakam Chand, arrived at the scene with his supporters and allegedly assaulted her.
According to the petitioner’s lawyer, when she protested, Santosh Devi was attacked and publicly beaten. Following the incident, Santosh Devi attempted to file a complaint at the Doda police station, but an FIR was not registered. Subsequently, she submitted a written complaint to the Deputy Commissioner of Doda and the SSP of Doda, demanding action, but no concrete action was taken.
Conversely, it is alleged that Hakam Chand filed an FIR against Santosh Devi and her son, making false allegations. After hearing arguments from both parties, the High Court has temporarily stayed the filing of the charge sheet and scheduled the next hearing for April 8th.
