ATHOLI (Kishtwar, AJK) (Kashmir English): An armed confrontation took place between the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Kishtwar district.
The clash occurred after the police moved against an army vehicle that obstructed a Deputy Commissioner’s convoy.
In retaliation, 17 Rashtriya Rifles personnel stormed Atholi police station, resulting in a violent altercation.
Military-Police clash in Kishtwar
Tensions soared in the mountainous Kishtwar district following the unprecedented armed face-off between the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Indian Army’s 17 Rashtriya Rifles (Maratha LI).
What began as a minor roadside standoff quickly escalated into a violent altercation that led to a First Information Report (FIR) filed against top army officers.
The incident unfolded when the Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner’s convoy—consisting of multiple civil officers and around 25 vehicles—was traveling through the area.
A Toyota Hilux (JK 14 L 4580) allegedly under the use of the Commanding Officer (CO) of the 11 Rashtriya Rifles was coming from the opposite direction. The vehicle was carrying two men in civilian clothes.
According to reports, the vehicle refused to give way to the civilian convoy on the narrow stretch of road.
The Hilux was subsequently seized and taken to the Atholi Police Station. In retaliation, armed with service weapons, and sticks, a group of 30 to 40 army personnel from the 17 Rashtriya Rifles allegedly stormed the Atholi Police Station.
The mob of soldiers, allegedly launched a violent assault on police officers and visiting civil officials.
Following the rampage, the police registered an FIR against several individuals, including the Commanding Officer of the 17 Rashtriya Rifles.
The officers and troops were booked under severe charges, including rioting, assault on public servants, and attempted murder.
