Eight Youths Reported Missing Across Jammu & Kashmir: Concerns Raised in Assembly
Jammu/Srinagar, March 12, 2025 – A wave of concern has swept across Jammu and Kashmir as reports of eight missing youths from various districts have surfaced. The issue was brought to light during a recent Assembly session, with leaders from the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) urging authorities to intensify search efforts and ensure the safety of the region’s youth.
Missing Youths Spark Alarm
NC legislator Ajaz Jan highlighted the case of Yawar Rashid, a teenager from Mandi, Poonch, who disappeared in Jammu after appearing for an examination. This incident has raised questions about the safety of students traveling for academic purposes. Jan emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, “The safety of our children is paramount, and we must leave no stone unturned in finding them.”
In addition to the Poonch case, other youths have been reported missing from Kathua, Devsar, and Ganderbal districts this year. Families of the missing individuals have expressed anguish, urging authorities to expedite investigations and provide updates on their loved ones’ whereabouts.
Tragic Discoveries in Kathua
The situation in Kathua has been particularly grim, with five missing individuals found dead in the district in recent months. The bodies were recovered from remote areas, including a waterfall in the Billawar region. Preliminary investigations have ruled out terror-related motives in some cases, but the exact causes of death remain under investigation. The incidents have sparked protests, with residents demanding enhanced security measures and accountability from local authorities.
Political Leaders Demand Action
PDP leaders have joined the NC in calling for a comprehensive strategy to address the issue of missing youths. They have urged the government to deploy additional resources, including drones and specialized search teams, to locate the missing individuals. “This is not just a law-and-order issue; it is a humanitarian crisis,” said a PDP spokesperson.
A Call for Unity and Vigilance
The spate of disappearances has underscored the need for community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies. Authorities have appealed to the public to report any suspicious activities and assist in the search efforts.
As the region grapples with these unsettling developments, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of its youth. The government has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation and bring the missing individuals back to their families.
