Why Was a Cop Suspended in Doda for Attacking a VDC Member?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, a police constable in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, has been suspended for allegedly assaulting a member of the Village Defence Committee (VDC). This incident raises questions about police conduct and accountability in a region where VDCs play a crucial role in community safety.
Key Takeaways
- A police constable in Doda was suspended for alleged assault.
- Immediate action was taken by the Senior Superintendent of Police.
- A departmental inquiry is underway to investigate the incident.
- Village Defence Committees were formed to empower locals against terrorism.
- VDGs are now equipped with modern arms for community protection.
Jammu, Aug 18 (NationPress) A police constable was suspended on Monday following allegations of physically assaulting a member of the village defence committee (VDC) in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir.
A statement from the police revealed that the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Doda has suspended selection grade constable (SgCT) Mohammad Zia of the Premnagar police post for his alleged misconduct towards the VDC member.
“SSP Doda, Sandeep Mehta (JKPS), has acted promptly and decisively. SgCt. Mohammad Zia has been suspended immediately and reassigned to the District Police Lines (DPL) while further investigations are conducted. A departmental inquiry has been initiated, with a senior officer designated to thoroughly investigate the matter. The inquiry report is expected within two weeks,” the statement disclosed.
“Moreover, the actions of the former Station House Officer (SHO) Police Station Thathri, DySP (P) Afeer Jaleel, will also be scrutinized during the inquiry process. The inquiry officer is tasked with evaluating his role and providing specific findings for necessary actions. The District Police is actively pursuing this matter, and any individuals found culpable will face strict legal consequences,” the police statement affirmed.
The VDCs were formed in the mid-1990s in the erstwhile Doda district (now divided into Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban) as a countermeasure against terrorist attacks.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration's goal was to empower residents of isolated, mountainous areas by equipping them with weapons and arms training for self-defense.
A VDC comprises at least 10-15 ex-servicemen, ex-policemen, and physically fit local residents who volunteer for this initiative.
At least five members of each VDC were allocated .303 rifles along with 100 rounds each, with the distribution of arms based on the volunteers' credentials and the village's security needs.
These committees have since been rebranded as Village Defence Guards (VDGs). The VDG initiative, sanctioned by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in March 2022, aims to train local volunteers in self-protection.
The VDGs operate under the guidance of the District Superintendent of Police (SP) or Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).
Districts such as Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Kathua, and Reasi in the Jammu division also have VDGs now. These VDGs are equipped with modern rifles to counter the threats posed by terrorists utilizing automatic weapons and other advanced armaments.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize the need for accountability within the police force, especially in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where trust is paramount. The swift action taken in this case is commendable, and similar accountability should be a standard practice to maintain public confidence in law enforcement.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the suspension of the constable in Doda?
The constable was suspended for allegedly assaulting a member of the Village Defence Committee, raising concerns about police conduct in sensitive areas.
What are Village Defence Committees (VDCs)?
VDCs were established in the mid-1990s in response to terrorist threats, aiming to empower locals with training and weapons for self-defense.
What actions are being taken against the constable?
The constable has been suspended and a departmental inquiry has been initiated to investigate the incident thoroughly.
What is the role of the District Police in this matter?
The District Police is actively overseeing the inquiry and ensuring that any wrongdoing is addressed according to the law.
How has the VDC initiative evolved over the years?
The VDCs have been rebranded as Village Defence Guards (VDGs), with modernized training and equipment to combat contemporary threats.
