The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken serious note of allegations of human rights violations by the Jammu & Kashmir Police and has sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Jammu, within two weeks.
The direction comes in response to a complaint filed by Jammu-based complainant Nikhil Padha, along with several co-signing lawyers, alleging incidents of public humiliation and unlawful parading of accused persons by police personnel.
According to the complaint, two incidents were highlighted. In the first, dated June 11, 2025, police officials in Gangyal allegedly handcuffed and publicly beat three accused individuals in the presence of bystanders. In the second incident, on June 24, 2025, another accused person was reportedly paraded through the streets of Jammu wearing a garland of shoes under police supervision.
The complainants contended that such actions bypass due process, amount to punishment prior to trial, and violate the dignity and fundamental rights of the accused. They further argued that these acts set a dangerous precedent and reflect elements of vigilante-style policing.
Taking cognisance of the matter, the Commission observed that the allegations, if true, constitute serious violations of human rights. It has accordingly directed that a detailed inquiry be conducted and a report be submitted expeditiously within a period of two weeks.
The NHRC has also forwarded a copy of the complaint to the SSP, Jammu, for necessary action in accordance with its directions. The report is to be submitted through the Commission’s HRCNet portal, as per prescribed procedure.
The complainants have urged the Commission to ensure independent inquiry, protection of victims’ statements from intimidation, and initiation of disciplinary and legal action against the officers involved. They have also sought mandatory training for police personnel on custodial rights and lawful procedures to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
