Tensions have escalated in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district after a man went missing, suspected to have drowned, following an alleged chase by cow vigilantes along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway
The victim, Tanveer Ahmad Chopan, a driver from Mundkhal village in Ukhral tehsil, was reportedly transporting a milch cow and two calves from Jammu to his native place when the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon
Eyewitness accounts and MLA’s statement
According to local accounts and statements by Sajjad Shaheen, MLA from Banihal, Chopan had valid permission for transporting the livestock
He was allegedly chased by a group of individuals suspected to be cow vigilantes near the Digdool area. Eyewitnesses said the attackers intercepted his vehicle near Makarkoot, after which Chopan, in a desperate attempt to escape, jumped into the Nallah Bishlari stream
Search operation underway
A large-scale search operation is currently underway involving SDRF, police, civil administration, and local volunteers. Authorities have also sought assistance from the NDRF
Officials said strong water currents and the depth of the stream are making rescue efforts difficult. Chopan remains untraceable so far
Police action and SIT probe
Senior Superintendent of Police Arun Gupta confirmed that an FIR has been registered based on eyewitness statements
A Special Investigation Team, headed by the SDPO Banihal, has been formed to investigate the incident. Police have arrested four individuals in connection with the case, and further investigation is ongoing
