Mirpur, Jammu Kashmir (PaK): Prominent nationalist leader Saddaqat Mughal Kashmiri was arrested by Mirpur police late Tuesday night, sparking outrage among activists who allege the detention is politically motivated. While authorities claim the arrest was made in connection with cases filed a month ago in Kel and Athmuqam, Mughal’s supporters insist he was targeted for exposing alleged military negligence in a recent avalanche tragedy.
Controversial Video and Police Claims
According to the police spokesperson, Mughal faces charges for “inciting the public against state institutions” through a social media video. The video allegedly linked the deaths of three Neelum Valley youths to the military, claiming they were transporting army rations when caught in an avalanche.
Police maintain that the youths had gone to check on their dhaare (seasonal mountain shelters) and deny any connection to military supply work. However, local journalists confirm that many youths in the region do earn income by transporting goods for Pakistani security forces though it remains unverified whether the victims were engaged in such work at the time.
Timing of Arrest Raises Questions
Mughal had been residing in Neelum for the past month without incident, yet was only arrested upon arriving in Mirpur, second largest city of Pakistan administrated Kashmir. Critics question why, if cases were already filed, he was not apprehended earlier. Police defended the delay, citing their “Record Management System,” which they claim tracks suspects across locations though they did not explain why it took weeks to locate him.
Suppression of Dissent or Lawful Action?
Human rights advocates argue Mughal’s arrest reflects a broader crackdown on dissent in Azad Kashmir. While authorities dismiss his claims as “misleading,” local activists insist his video merely amplified long-standing grievances about military influence in civilian affairs.
Mughal had earlier alleged pressure from officials to delete the video. Subsequently, another social media account circulated footage purportedly showing recovered army ration packets at the avalanche site further fueling controversy.
Calls for Release
Pro-independence groups demand Mughal’s immediate release, framing the charges as an attack on free speech. “This isn’t about law it’s about silencing critics,” said a colleague. Meanwhile, police confirm Mughal will be transferred to Neelum for further legal proceedings.
As tensions rise, the case underscores the delicate balance between security narratives and civilian dissent in the region.
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By Haris Qadeer
Kashmir Dispatch | Independent Journalism for a Jammu Kashmir
