Following a recent case of sexual assault involving a local medicinal practitioner in Wakha, Kargil, the district witnessed a complete shutdown on Sunday, highlighting concerns over the alleged lack of a clear response from the police.
The Jamiat Ulma Isna Ashary Kargil (JUIAK) called for the shutdown, citing the absence of a press conference by the Ladakh police on the matter.
Sajjad Kargili, the JUIAK representative, expressed their primary objective of the shutdown, which aimed to prevent such heinous acts in the future. They attributed blame to the Ladakh police for the delay in conducting a press conference, which took a week to arrange.
During the shutdown, all non-emergency services, including shops, restaurants, hotels, industries, and other business activities, remained closed. Vehicle movement was also minimal.
JUIAK President Sheikh Nasir, in a press conference, expressed gratitude to the National Conference and other organizations for supporting the strike. He emphasized the importance of taking swift action against such crimes to prevent future occurrences.
Earlier, the JUIAK had planned a protest on Friday, which was initially suspended after the Ladakh police assured them of a press conference. However, due to further delays in organizing the conference, the JUIAK proceeded with the complete shutdown in the district.
Sheikh Sadiq Rajai, Chairman of the Imam Khomeini Memorial Trust Kargil, expressed his viewpoint on the situation, emphasizing the significance of inclusivity in bandh calls.
Adding that the IKMT is also in support for the cause, he suggested that it would have been more effective and comprehensive if the JUIAK had engaged all stakeholders in Kargil before announcing the shutdown.
It is noteworthy that following the shutdown call by the JUIAK, SSP Kargil Anayat Ali Choudhary held a press conference where he provided an update on the progress made in the case.
The accused individual has been arrested, and an ongoing investigation is underway. The SSP also discussed the evidence collected by the police regarding the incident.
The incident has sparked concerns among the local community and organizations, emphasizing the need for swift and transparent actions in addressing such crimes.