Village shuns girl after DIG announces relief

On July 3, a Handwara police team led by the DSP arrested Ahkter from the Government Higher Secondary School, Zachaldara, where she was studying, charging her with involvement in the murder of a CRPF personnel. The girl was later allegedly tortured at the Handwara police station, sparking violent protests in the town which later spread to other parts of the Valley. The protests continued for days and the villagers relented only after the police ordered an inquiry into the incident.

But things have changed for Hasina. Speaking to reporters here, she said today: ‘‘The police have spread the rumour that I took money from them, which I never did. This has made my life miserable.’’

‘‘At a press conference which I was also made to attend, the DIG announced a job and compensation of Rs 2 lakh for my family. I neither got the job nor the money. Who will sacrifice her honour for money?’’ said Hasina, fighting back the tears rolling down her cheeks. ‘‘The villagers say that I and my family are working for the armed forces and they always point fingers at my character,’’ she went on. ‘‘They harass and abuse me. I am afraid to step out of my house and whenever I have to, I cover my face with a veil. It has made my life and that of my family miserable.’’

‘‘At the same press conference, the DIG assured that an enquiry will be ordered and prompt action taken against the police officer (who led the team). But no action has been taken against him yet,’’ she added.

Her father, Ghulam Ahmad, a farmer, who has to support a family of eight, including four daughters, said, ‘‘I went to Zachaldara to lodge an FIR but the policemen there said the DIG has already lodged an FIR. When I asked for a copy of the FIR, they refused.’’

DIG, North Kashmir, Raja Aijaz said, ‘‘There has been no order for an inquiry. I had asked for her file from the SP, Handwara, and while scanning it, I didn’t find anything there about an inquiry. I have forwarded the file to the headquarters.’’ He also said he was not aware of any announcement for a job or compensation as the DIG of the region had changed.