Legal Action Initiated Against Iltija Mufti After Alleged Assault During Srinagar Protest

Srinagar:Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched formal legal proceedings against People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti following an alleged assault on a police officer during a protest outside the party headquarters near Sher‑i‑Kashmir Park on Srinagar’s Residency Road.

The incident occurred late Tuesday evening, and police have now summoned Iltija to appear at Police Station Kothibagh on August 7 as part of the ongoing investigation.

The protest, led by PDP president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and her daughter Iltija, was held on August 4, ahead of the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. According to the police, demonstrators attempted to block Residency Road and move toward city centre Lal Chowk despite restrictions in place. Officers deployed at the site repeatedly urged the crowd to remain peaceful and comply with lawful directions, but a section of protestors allegedly tried to breach barricades, prompting police intervention.

The PDP’s demonstration was among the most visible protests that evening. Mehbooba Mufti led a candlelight vigil outside the party office and earlier attempted to march toward Lal Chowk. When stopped by police, she and other party members staged a sit‑in. During the confrontation, Iltija circulated a video showing her arguing with women police personnel, claiming she was manhandled and that one officer attempted to tear her clothes—allegations the police have categorically denied.

Police officials allege that during the scuffle, Iltija physically assaulted a male police officer performing his lawful duties. She is accused of grabbing him and biting his forearm, causing a bleeding injury. The officer was taken to a hospital where he received wound care, tetanus prophylaxis, vaccination and other preventive treatment as per medical protocol.

Taking serious note of the alleged assault on a public servant, Srinagar Police registered FIR No. 63/2026 at Police Station Kothibagh under relevant legal provisions. Investigators have begun a detailed probe into the events leading up to the confrontation, the conduct of protestors, and the alleged obstruction of police personnel.

As part of this investigation, Iltija Mufti has been formally summoned to join the inquiry on August 7. Police have reiterated that the investigation is underway and emphasised that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in assaulting police personnel or obstructing public servants in the discharge of their duties.

Neither Iltija Mufti nor the PDP has issued any formal response so far to the police allegations or the filing of an FIR against her. However, when contacted by this newspaper, a senior PDP leader described the development as a witch‑hunt and a deliberate attempt by the authorities to stifle dissent.

Late Thursday night, the PDP stated in a post on ‘X’ that police had reached the residence of the party president in Khimber, on the outskirts of Srinagar, and were questioning Iltija Mufti, “who is currently undergoing medical treatment following the injuries she sustained.”

The party added that “questioning an injured person while she is under treatment raises serious concerns and is deeply insensitive. Authorities must respect her medical condition and ensure that due process is followed with dignity and humanity.”

The PDP further claimed that Iltija had earlier been treated at Srinagar’s Paras Hospital for injuries she allegedly suffered during police action at the August 4 protest.