A brutal incident involving the suspected rape and murder of a nomadic woman in the Nishat area on the outskirts of Srinagar has sent shockwaves through the local community, prompting strong condemnation and demands for justice. The victim, wife of Mohammad Rafiq and a native of Reasi currently residing in Nishat, was reportedly attacked by a group of intoxicated men near the Water Works Road on Sunday evening.
Police sources at Nishat Police Station confirmed that they received information around 5 PM about the attempted sexual assault on the woman. She was found grievously injured at the scene and was rushed to the hospital, where doctors declared her brought dead. Acting promptly, the police registered a case under FIR No. 35/2025 and began an investigation.
During initial inquiries, four individuals were detained for questioning. They have been identified as Suhail Bashir Bhat (23) from Asham Sumbal, Adil Ali Bhat (27) and Firdous Ahmad Rather (46) from Zeethyar Nishat, and Suhail Afzal Bhat (28) from Pahloo Brein Nishat. All four are currently under police custody, and further investigation is underway to determine their roles in the crime.
The gruesome nature of the incident has deeply disturbed residents, particularly in Gupkar Mohalla, where the local Intizamia Committee issued a scathing statement condemning the act. The committee urged the authorities to act swiftly and ensure the strictest punishment for those responsible. “This inhuman act has shamed our society. We stand in solidarity with the victim’s family and demand nothing less than justice,” the statement read.
The crime has also brought to light the vulnerability of nomadic communities living in makeshift shelters and fringe areas, often without proper security or protection. Locals expressed anger over the absence of preventive measures and urged the administration to do more to safeguard marginalized groups.
Police officials have assured that the case is being pursued with utmost seriousness and that no leniency will be shown to the guilty. The community, meanwhile, awaits action, hoping that the wheels of justice will not move slowly this time.