SRINAGAR – A profound sense of shock and grief has gripped the Kashmir valley following the death of a 12-year-old girl in central Kashmir’s Budgam district. The minor, who was reported missing on Saturday night, was discovered dead near her home on Sunday morning, with police treating the incident as a suspected case of rape and murder.
The Investigation – According to officials, the girl disappeared from her home in Galwanpora village—located a short distance from the Srinagar airport—at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Saturday. Search teams, including local residents and police, scoured the area through the night. Tragically, her body was found early Sunday morning just 200 meters from her residence.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Hariprasad KK confirmed that authorities have initiated a thorough investigation.
”Legal and medical formalities have been completed. Prima facie, it seems a case of rape and murder and all relevant sections of law have been added to the FIR,” SSP Hariprasad stated. “We will use all available resources to crack the case.”
As of Sunday evening, police had not disclosed further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the death, and no arrests had been made.
Widespread Outrage and Condemnation
The horrific nature of the crime has triggered immediate outrage across the political spectrum in Jammu and Kashmir.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the act, stating that his government will fully support law enforcement agencies to “ensure exemplary punishment” for the perpetrators. Echoing this commitment, Health and Social Welfare Minister Sakina Itoo visited the bereaved family in Budgam to offer condolences, assuring them of all possible government assistance and swift justice.
Former Chief Minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti took to social media to express her horror, calling the incident a grim reminder of the growing vulnerability of children.
”Devastated to hear about the cold-blooded murder of a 12-year-old girl in Budgam. The allegations of rape just make it all the more shocking, disconcerting, and unsettling. One shudders at the thought if our children are really safe,” Mufti stated.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues. Heavy security presence remains in the area as the local community mourns the tragic loss.
