Two Separatist Leaders Arrested in 1996 Terror-Related Rioting Case in Srinagar

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

SRINAGAR DECM 09(KNC):-Jammu & Kashmir Police have made fresh arrests in a nearly 29-year-old case linked to rioting, firing on police personnel, and unlawful activities during a violent procession in Srinagar in 1996.

Officials told news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, KNC that the case pertains to FIR No. 192/1996 registered at Police Station Shergarhi under sections of the erstwhile Ranbir Penal Code, Arms Act, and UAPA. The FIR was filed after a massive procession on July 17, 1996, turned violent.

Major breakthroughs occurred this week, after, Shakeel Ahmad Bakshi, former chief of the Islamic Students League, surrendered before the NIA Court Srinagar on December 8 and Javid Ahmad Mir, another key accused, surrendered a day later on December 9.

According to police records, the procession was led by senior separatist figures including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Abdul Gani Lone, Mohammad Yaqoob Wakil, and Javid Ahmad Mir. The mob was carrying the body of terrorist Hilal Ahmad Beigh of Allochi Bagh, who had been killed in an encounter at Parimpora.

When police attempted to stop the crowd at Naaz Crossing, the mob allegedly resorted to heavy stone-pelting, raised anti-India slogans, and created a law-and-order emergency. Under the cover of the chaos, Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists allegedly opened fire at the police, prompting retaliatory action. The procession dispersed soon after, and the body was later handed over to the family.

During the early investigation, seven persons were identified for leading and provoking the violence. Geelani and Lone were arrested the same day but were later released on bail. Officials confirmed that three of the accused including Geelani have since passed away, and death certificates have been obtained.

Two others named in the case, Shabir Shah and Nayeem Khan, continue to remain lodged in Tihar Jail in a separate NIA case.

Both were taken into custody by Shergarhi Police after completing legal formalities. Police said Bakshi’s brother had earlier been associated with the banned JKLF.

Officials said the investigation is now moving swiftly, and a charge sheet will be filed before the competent court once the remaining legal procedures are completed. —(KNC)