Call for Reform: Systemic Changes Needed in J&K Joint Interrogation Centers

Mehbooba Mufti urged systemic reform of Joint Interrogation Centers (JICs) in Jammu and Kashmir following a Supreme Court directive for a CBI investigation into alleged custodial torture. The court ordered compensation for a police constable who suffered severe injuries, highlighting a need for urgent change.

In a strong call for action, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms within Joint Interrogation Centers (JICs) across Jammu and Kashmir. This follows harrowing reports of a man's genital mutilation while in custody, underscoring the need for swift and significant change.

The Supreme Court responded forcefully on Monday, directing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to register a First Information Report over the 'brutal and inhuman custodial torture' of a Jammu and Kashmir police constable. Alongside this, the Union Territory's administration was mandated to compensate the victim with Rs 50 lakh.

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, taking to social media, described the incident as a 'chilling reminder of custodial abuse in J&K.' She commended the Supreme Court's call for a CBI probe, the arrest of those responsible, and the compensation order as overdue measures necessary to address systemic issues within interrogation facilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)