UAPA Court Sentences South Kashmir Man to Six Years’ Imprisonment in Encounter Case – Alfaaz – The Words

Shopian: A Special UAPA Court for Kulgam and Shopian has convicted and sentenced Towseef Ahmed Thokar, son of Mohammad Yousaf Thokar of Khawajapora Reban, Zainapora, to six years of imprisonment for his involvement in the 2021 Imam Sahab encounter case, registered under FIR No. 25/2021 at Police Station Imam Sahab.

Thokar, as per the Court order, was found guilty under Sections 16, 18, and 20 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Section 307 of the Indian Penal Code, and Section 7/27 of the Arms Act. After reserving the matter for sentencing last week, the court on Tuesday awarded the convict a rigorous six-year sentence, underscoring the gravity of offences involving terrorism and armed confrontation with security forces.

Notably, the case stems from the encounter of May 5, 2021, in Imam Sahab, Shopian, during which three militants, Danish Ahmed Mir, Zahid Bashir, and Umar Hassan Bhat, were killed. Thokar was apprehended alive at the encounter site along with arms and ammunition.

The investigation was led by Mohd Ashrif Lissery (JKPS), then DySP Operations Imam Sahab and currently SDPO Magam. The court, in its detailed judgment delivered by Special Judge Parvaiz Iqbal, noted that terrorism-related offences demand a firm judicial response, and the sentencing reflects the need to deter activities that threaten national security.

The court also praised the Investigating Officer and the prosecution team for conducting a meticulous investigation and presenting evidence that “withstood judicial scrutiny,” ultimately enabling the prosecution to prove all charges beyond reasonable doubt.