• Source:JND
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The body of a man, who was detained by security forces for questioning over alleged terror links, was recovered from a stream in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district. The police claim that the man, identified as Imtiyaz Ahmed Magray, jumped into the stream while trying to escape during questioning. However, his family and political leaders in the valley allege custodial death. 

Imtiyaz Ahmed Magray was detained by police on suspicion of being a Lashkar-e-Taiba sleeper cell member. According to police, he was taken to a hideout location for identification when he allegedly attempted to flee and drowned in the fast-flowing Vaishow stream.

The police have launched an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of Magray's death. A drone footage showed a youth jumping into the stream and getting washed away, which police claim supports their version of events.

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Magray's family and several politicians have alleged custodial death. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, National Conference MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi and Jammu and Kashmir Minister Sakina Ittoo have called for an impartial investigation into the incident.

Sakina Ittoo demanded a judicial probe, stating that there was nothing against Magray in police records. ''The Pahalgam attack was very sad and unfortunate. We all are aggrieved by it. However, an atmosphere of fear has been created. I request the lieutenant governor that instructions be given to the home department to ensure that innocent people are not harassed and harmed,'' Ittoo said as quoted by news agency PTI.

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Mehbooba Mufti and Aga Ruhullah Mehdi also stated the need for accountability and a thorough investigation. Mehbooba Mufti claimed the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, was a "calculated attempt" to disrupt peace and tourism in Kashmir. Aga Ruhullah Mehdi stated that Kashmiris cannot be treated as collateral damage and that arbitrary detention and custodial killings are violations of democratic principles.

(With PTI Inputs)