‘He (Rajnath) told us what happened was very wrong’: Families of civilians killed in Poonch

“When we asked what was the fault of those we lost, the Defence Minister said that they were not at fault and that is why the government has paid the compensation,” Noor said. “However, he also made it clear that a price cannot be put on a human life; that even if they paid Rs 5 crore, it cannot compensate for the loss of a life.”

According to another family member, the Defence Minister enquired from Lt Governor Manoj Sinha about the government help that has been extended to the families, and was told that steps have been initiated to provide a government job to the next of kin.

Saluting the unwavering commitment of brave soldiers of 🇮🇳 #ArmedForces, Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh reassures that nation stands strong with them & are forever indebted to their unparalleled valour and sacrifice.
He was accompanied by Lt Gov of J&K Shri @manojsinha_ (2/3) pic.twitter.com/3y9JDuE0BW

— PRO Defence Jammu (@prodefencejammu) December 27, 2023

Sadiq, whose nephew Mohammad Showkat was among the three civilians, said, “We apprised the Home Minister of the injustice done to our innocent children, who were picked up from home. He assured that justice will be done.”

Several District Development Council (DDC) members, former legislators and civil society members were also present at the meeting between the defence minister, Lt Governor and the families of the deceased civilians. (X/ prodefencejammu)

Meeting the injured, Singh enquired about their condition and the medical facilities being provided to them. “We told him how security forces picked us up and tortured us at their camp,” said Mohammad Betab from the hospital bed. “We also told him that we cannot stand or walk at present.”

Before meeting the injured, Singh told the media that justice would be ensured.

“We are satisfied with the government paying us compensation and not being vindictive towards us, but the law should take its course against those responsible for the death of our loved ones,” said Sadiq.

In the morning, two people from the family of each civilian were taken to Rajouri town by the Poonch district administration to meet the minister at noon.

A day earlier, senior Army officers had visited their homes. “Brigadier M P Singh, Commander of Sector 6 Rashtriya Rifles, and Commanding Officer of the 16 Rashtriya Rifles visited us around 4 pm on Tuesday and assured strict action against those responsible for the death of our family members,” a relative said. “They assured us that the Army was with us. Both the officers visited the homes of all three families and informed us that an inquiry had already been initiated and some officers removed from their posts,” the person said.

The officers were in the village for nearly an hour before leaving, he added.

The district administration has promised Rs 30 lakh, a government job and a 10 marla plot in Surankote to the next of kin of each deceased. Of this, it has already paid them cheques of Rs 10 lakh each.