Srinagar, May 08,2013: Frisking and identification parades of the people by Indian troops continue in Kulgam district. Locals told a daily english in Srinagar that they were being subjected to harassment and humiliation on the pretext of security by the personnel of Indian paramilitary 62 Rashtriya Rifles camped at Hatipora, Yaripora in the district.
They said the practice of frisking and identification checks of people hailing from Guffan, Narwin, Thukarpora, Hatipora, Kasthpora, Manchow, Amar Bug, Munand, and Gund Darwesh continued to exist since early 90s. The youth, particularly the students were bearing the brunt.
“The troops halt passengers and light motor vehicles near Hatipora camp and subject them to frisking. Even children and elderly have to go through tough checks. This is humiliating,” one of the residents said.
The students also complained that they missed their classes due to the checks near the camp. “How can we reach school on time when the troops waste nearly 15 minutes in frisking us? They search our belongings and demand identity cards as if we don’t belong to this place,” Muzammil Ahmad, an eighth grader told Kashmir Reader.
Suhail Ahmad Sofi, an 11th standard student, said that Indian Army treated people like criminals.