RAJOURI, Dec 2: Tension gripped the Khodbani area of Khawas on Tuesday as hundreds of residents, along with the bereaved family of slain shopkeeper Manzoor Hussain, took to the streets in a massive protest demanding justice and a transparent investigation into his murder. The emotional outpouring reflected deep anger within the community, which called for immediate action against those involved and assurances of safety for local residents.
Protesters gathered near the victim’s shop early in the day, raising slogans and pressing authorities to bring every individual connected to the crime to book. Relatives described Manzoor as a humble and hardworking man, and his sudden killing has left the entire locality shocked.
Responding to the unrest, SHO Dharamsal Parveen Kumar addressed the crowd and confirmed that the prime accused has already been arrested. He emphasized that the police acted promptly, rushing to the scene as soon as the distress call was received. Officers, he said, prioritised saving Manzoor Hussain by immediately shifting him to the hospital, though he later succumbed to his injuries.
The SHO assured mourners that the investigation would be conducted in a fair, professional and comprehensive manner, and that no leniency would be shown toward anyone found guilty. He urged the public to maintain peace while allowing the law to take its course.