Srinagar, June 21, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, has called for an urgent investigation into serious allegations of human rights violations in Manzgam, Kulgam district. The village, home to the revered shrine of Baba Qayaam Din and the temple of Ragniya Devi, holds significant religious importance for the local community.
In a statement posted on X on June 20, 2025, . Mufti highlighted growing concerns regarding the establishment of an Army camp in Manzgam since May 2025. She alleged that young men from Manzgam and surrounding villages are being forcibly taken to the camp and subjected to bonded labor. Additionally, reports have surfaced claiming that private vehicles belonging to local residents are being coercively requisitioned by the Army for their use.
Mufti has urged the Corps Commander, Srinagar, and the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps (@ChinarcorpsIA) and Director General of Public Information (@adgpi) to immediately investigate these allegations. She emphasized the need to uphold the fundamental rights and dignity of local civilians, stating, “There are legitimate & growing concerns as well as allegations that young men from Manzgam and the surrounding villages are being forcibly taken to these camps for bonded labor.”
Muftis appeal underscores the importance of addressing these serious claims to maintain trust and harmony between the armed forces and the local population. She has called for swift action to ensure that the religious and cultural sanctity of Manzgam is respected and that the rights of its residents are protected.
