Armyman Goes Missing in Kashmir’s Kulgam District, Family Suspects Kidnapping

New Delhi, July 30, 2023: A 25-year-old Armyman, Rifleman Javed Ahmad, belonging to the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry regiment, has gone missing in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district. He had come home on leave to celebrate Eid and was scheduled to return and join duty tomorrow.

On the evening of the incident, around 6.30 pm yesterday, Javed Ahmad left his home to buy some items from the market, driving an Alto car. However, he did not return until 9 pm, causing concern among his family members. The car was later found abandoned near the market, with reports suggesting the presence of blood stains.

The Kashmir police have registered a case and detained some suspects in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, security forces have launched a search operation to locate the missing soldier.

The family of Rifleman Javed Ahmad fears that he may have been kidnapped by terrorists in the area. In a heart-wrenching video statement, the soldier’s grieving mother made an emotional appeal for his release, expressing regret over his army service and pleading for his safe return.

“My son was posted in Ladakh. He had come home just after Eid and was supposed to join back on duty tomorrow. He had stepped out last evening to buy some stuff from the market. He was stopped by some people and kidnapped. I appeal to them, please release my son,” said Mohammad Ayub Wani, the soldier’s father.

The situation has raised concerns as the region has witnessed similar incidents in the past, where soldiers on leave have been abducted and killed by terrorists. The authorities are actively investigating the matter, and efforts are being made to ensure the safe return of Rifleman Javed Ahmad.