Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, May 6: Locals in north Kashmir’s Handwara today held a protest demonstration demanding justice for the nomadic woman who was allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered in Nishat.
Several people took to the streets, holding placards and calling for justice for the victim, as well as strict punishment for those involved.
“Those who committed this crime were under the influence of drugs. In that state, they sexually assaulted the woman and then killed her. We strongly condemn this act and want to make it clear that such people have no place in our society,” one of the protestors said.
He urged the authorities to take strict action against the accused by ensuring exemplary punishment.
Another protestor, Chowdhary Shaheen, said that what happened in Nishat was beyond condemnation. Click here to watch video
He also demanded timely justice for the victim and harsh punishment for the perpetrators.
“The culprits should be given exemplary punishment so that anyone harbouring such intentions in the future thinks a thousand times before committing such a crime,” he said.
The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) J&K also condemned the “rape and murder” of the tribal woman in Nishat, calling it “a grievous wound on the conscience of our society.”
While appreciating the swift action by the police in apprehending the accused, the GCC called for a fast-tracked investigation and trial to ensure justice for the victim and her family.
“It is our collective responsibility to address the root causes of rising crimes against women,” the group said in a statement.
They urged communities to come together to foster a culture in which women are respected, protected, and empowered.
Meanwhile, National Conference leader and MLA from Hazratbal, Salman Ali Sagar, visited the family of the woman in Nishat.
Expressing sorrow over the brutal crime, Sagar offered his condolences to the grieving family and assured them of his full support.
He pledged to personally monitor the case and press for swift and transparent justice.
“Such heinous crimes have no place in our society,” Sagar said.
“The perpetrators must be held accountable without delay. I’ve assured the family that I will stand by them and ensure the case is pursued with urgency and seriousness.”
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