The extensive search operation to locate a young man who allegedly jumped into a stream in the Ramban district after reportedly being pursued by a group of individuals labeled as ‘cow vigilantes,’ has now entered its third consecutive day. Rescue teams are facing challenging conditions as they continue their efforts to find the missing individual.
The missing man has been identified as 25-year-old Tanveer Ahmad Chopan, a resident of Pogal. Chopan has been unaccounted for since the incident that occurred on Sunday. Despite the persistent efforts of the search teams, there has been no sign of him so far. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the focus remains on locating Chopan and clarifying the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
The search operation involves a coordinated effort from multiple agencies. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the local police are all actively engaged in the search. Volunteers from local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are also providing assistance, highlighting the community’s concern and support in this difficult situation.
Reports indicate that Tanveer Ahmad Chopan, after allegedly being assaulted by a group of men, jumped into the Nullah Bishlari stream in an attempt to evade his attackers. The incident reportedly took place near Tunnel No 5 at Magarkote. The allegations of assault and the subsequent escape into the stream are central to the investigation.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Sargun Shukla visited Magarkote on Tuesday, where the incident occurred. During her visit, she reviewed the progress of the ongoing investigation and received detailed briefings on the developments in the case. The senior police officer’s visit underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the matter.
As per reports, law enforcement has already made several arrests in connection with the incident. Four individuals have been taken into custody for their alleged involvement in the case. The arrests demonstrate an active effort to hold those responsible accountable, as the investigation continues to uncover the details surrounding the event.
The incident has sparked local protests, with community members expressing their outrage and demanding justice. Locals blocked the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Ramban on Monday to voice their concerns and demand strict action against the accused. The protests underscore the community’s deep concern and desire for a thorough and impartial investigation.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan and Senior Superintendent of Police Arun Gupta visited the protest site in an effort to ease tensions. Their presence aimed to pacify the demonstrators and reassure them that the authorities are taking the matter seriously and are committed to ensuring a fair and just outcome. Dialogue and engagement with the community are viewed as essential steps in managing the situation and preventing further unrest.
To ensure a comprehensive and impartial investigation, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the case. The SIT has initiated an in-depth inquiry to identify all those involved in the alleged crime. The formation of the SIT highlights the commitment to uncovering all aspects of the incident and bringing those responsible to justice.
Abdul Salman Chopan, the father of the missing man, serves as a Special Police Officer with the J&K Police. Besides his son, he is survived by three daughters. The family has voiced their grief and concerns, demanding strict action against those responsible for the incident. The family’s plea for justice reflects the emotional impact of the event and the community’s desire for accountability, as authorities continue searching for Tanveer Ahmad Chopan.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
