Eight Police Officials Suspended After Religious Preachers Brutally Attacked in Kathua, Jammu

Kathua, J&K , October 26: A group of religious preachers was brutally attacked in the presence of police officials in Kathua district, prompting the Jammu and Kashmir Police to suspend eight officers on Friday for alleged dereliction of duty.

The attack occurred when a passenger mini-bus carrying around ten to fifteen Christian preachers was ambushed by a group of unidentified men, some wearing masks, in the Juthana area of Kathua. The assailants, armed with iron rods and sticks, pounced on the vehicle as police officials — including a sub-inspector — stood by and watched without taking decisive action.

Video footage of the assault, which went viral on social media, shows four to five attackers smashing the front windshield and side-view mirror of the mini-bus before proceeding to target the terrified passengers inside. The shocking visuals reveal policemen watching the violent scene unfold without intervening to protect the victims.

According to reports, the Kathua Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections, including provisions of the Arms Act. At least one person has been arrested in connection with the crime.

Eyewitnesses and video evidence show only one police official attempting, though unsuccessfully, to stop an attacker who opened the bus door and began assaulting passengers.

Disturbing audio from the viral video captures anguished screams — including those of women — as the attackers drag and beat a male passenger seated at the front. In the background, another attacker can be heard demanding to “see other males,” while the victims cry out for help.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, raising serious concerns about police inaction and the safety of religious minorities. Authorities have confirmed that the suspended officers will face disciplinary action, and investigations into the attack are ongoing.

Source: The Wire

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