A Special NIA Court in Srinagar has ordered the framing of charges against three men accused of conspiring with a Pakistan-based handler to kill two non-local labourers in the city last year.Additional Sessions Judge Sandeep Gandotra, designated under the NIA Act, held that prima facie evidence exists to prosecute Adil Manzoor Langoo, Ahran Rasool Dar alias Tata, and Dawood under the Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the Arms Act.
The case stems from the February 7 attack at Shaheed Gunj in Srinagar, where two labourers from Punjab, Amrit Pal Singh and Rohit Massi, were shot at close range. Singh died on the spot, while Massi succumbed to his injuries the following day. The National Investigation Agency alleged that the attack was aimed at reviving militancy and creating fear among non-local workers in Kashmir.
According to the chargesheet, Langoo became radicalised in 2023 after consuming jihadist literature and joined a Telegram group called Kashmir Fighters. He allegedly came in contact with a handler across the border, identified as Jahangir alias Peer Sahab, who directed him to collect a pistol and ammunition from Bemina in January 2024. On February 7, Langoo is said to have carried out the attack with the weapon, while Dar and Dawood provided logistical support, concealed arms, and attempted to destroy evidence.
Investigators said forensic analysis confirmed Langoo’s DNA on the seized pistol. CCTV footage, protected witness testimonies, call detail records, and DVR examinations further linked the trio to the crime. Special Public Prosecutor K S Pathania argued that the accused acted in concert with a Lashkar-e-Taiba/TRF handler to wage war against the State.
The defence, represented by Advocates I H Bhat, F A Wani, and A M Dar, claimed that their clients were falsely implicated. However, the court rejected these submissions, observing that “cumulative evidence on record raises grave suspicion” and justified framing charges.
The court directed that the accused face trial under Sections 302 (murder), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), and 201 (causing disappearance of evidence) of the IPC; Sections 16, 18, 20 and 23 of the UAPA; and Section 7/27 of the Arms Act. The Ministry of Home Affairs has already sanctioned prosecution under the UAPA, while the District Magistrate Srinagar granted sanction under the Arms Act. [KNT]
