MIRPUR (Kashmir English): A Station House Officer (SHO) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has been suspended and charged in a criminal case after allegedly harassing a British-Kashmiri woman in Mirpur. In the latest advancements in the case, the IG Kashmir Police has ordered the arrest of SHO in connection with the harassment case involving a British woman.
The woman had sought assistance regarding a property custody issue and was advised by the divisional commissioner to approach the Thothal police station for redress. However, upon reaching SHO Chaudhry Imran Ahmed, she was met with an inappropriate response. Instead of taking the case professionally, the officer insisted on picking her up from her place.
Even during the journey in the SHO’s vehicle, the woman reports to have experienced harassment multiple times, which she opposed. Sources reveal that she managed to record an audio clip of the encounter on her mobile phone, capturing the officer’s inappropriate behaviour.
In the recording, the allegedly inebriated SHO could be heard pressuring the woman to move to the front seat, remove her abaya, and befriend him. He also urged her to visit his home and made repeated obscene demands.
The matter was brought to the attention of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Rana Abdul Jabbar on February 21. Taking immediate action, the IGP called the officer to headquarters and ordered the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mirpur, Khawar Shaukat Ali, to perform an initial inquiry.
Following the inquiry, a police department representative confirmed on Tuesday that the allegations of harassment had been substantiated. As a result, a criminal case was filed against the SHO, and he was suspended from duty. Separate departmental proceedings were also initiated against him.
The department emphasised that no one, regardless of their position within the police force, would be exempt from legal consequences if found involved in such misconduct. The department also reiterated the police department’s zero-tolerance policy towards harassment, particularly in cases involving women.
Ensuring women’s safety remains a top priority, the spokesperson added, stressing that complaints of harassment will not be ignored and strict action will be taken against any officers involved in such behaviour.
In the latest advancements in the case, the IG Kashmir Police has ordered the arrest of the SHO in connection with the harassment case involving a British woman.
