Who is the New Accused Identified in the 1990 IAF Srinagar Terror Case?
Synopsis
In a significant development in the 1990 IAF Srinagar terror case, another accused has been identified, linking them to the tragic attack that resulted in the deaths of four IAF personnel. This revelation sheds new light on a case that continues to haunt the region.
Key Takeaways
New accused identified in the 1990 IAF terror case.
Eyewitness testimony links Showkat Bakshi to the attack.
Yasin Malik's life sentence highlights accountability.
Continuing legal proceedings signify ongoing pursuit of justice.
The case remains a critical point in addressing terrorism.
Jammu, Jan 31 (NationPress) A new accused was unveiled on Saturday by a prosecution witness in the special court during the proceedings of the 1990 terrorist attack targeting IAF personnel in J&K's Srinagar city, which resulted in the deaths of four IAF members.
Senior additional advocate general, Monika Kohli, stated that following the identification of JKLF chief Yasin Malik, his close associate Showkat Bakshi was recognized by an eyewitness in a special court as one of the gunmen involved in the January 1990 assault on a group of Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel in Srinagar.
In January 2024, Malik was marked as the principal shooter by former IAF corporal Rajwar Umeshwar Singh, who survived the attack that claimed the lives of four IAF personnel.
Apart from the four fatalities, including squadron leader Ravi Khanna, approximately 40 individuals sustained injuries during the incident on January 25, 1990, in the Rawalpora area on the outskirts of Srinagar city.
The IAF personnel were awaiting their transport to the old Srinagar airfield for duty when the terrorists opened fire.
A charge sheet was presented on August 31, 1990, against Yasin Malik and five others, including Showkat Bakshi, in the designated TADA court. The additional accused in the deaths of the IAF personnel are JKLF operatives: Ali Mohammed Mir, Manzoor Ahmed Sofi alias Mustafa, Javed Ahmed Mir alias 'Nalka', Javed Ahmed Zargar, and Saleem alias Nanaji. Bakshi was identified by the prosecution witness, an IAF employee and survivor, as stated by Senior Additional Advocate General Monika Kohli.
Kohli, who also serves as a senior Public Prosecutor for the CBI, is representing the central agency alongside Special Public Prosecutor S.K. Bhat in the ongoing case against Malik and others.
Additionally, they are representing the CBI in the case concerning the 1989 abduction of Rubaiya Sayeed, the daughter of then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, by Malik's terrorist group.
In May 2022, Yasin Malik admitted guilt to criminal conspiracy against the state and received a life sentence. He is currently incarcerated in Delhi's Tihar Jail.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this case with sensitivity and authority. The identification of another accused in the 1990 IAF Srinagar terror case not only brings hope for justice but also highlights the ongoing struggle against terrorism. This news serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and the importance of bringing perpetrators to justice.
NationPress
16 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the 1990 IAF Srinagar terror case?
The 1990 IAF Srinagar terror case refers to a terrorist attack in January 1990, where terrorists targeted IAF personnel in Srinagar, leading to the deaths of four personnel and injuries to many others.
Who has been identified as an accused in this case?
Showkat Bakshi has been identified as one of the accused involved in the attack, alongside Yasin Malik, who was previously identified as the main shooter.
What was the outcome for Yasin Malik?
Yasin Malik pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy against the state in May 2022 and has been sentenced to life imprisonment, currently serving his term in Tihar Jail.
What legal proceedings are taking place now?
The special court continues to hear the case, with the prosecution presenting evidence against the accused, including eyewitness testimonies linking them to the attack.
Why is this case significant?
This case is significant as it reflects the ongoing challenges of terrorism in the region and the legal pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
