The Biz Reporter
Anantnag, June 28: In a significant legal decision, a court in Kashmir’s Anantnag district has denied bail to Zubair Ahmad Bhat, a man accused of raping a 70-year-old tourist from Maharashtra during her stay at Hotel Chinar Inn in Pahalgam.
The incident, which has drawn widespread outrage, occurred when the victim was alone in her room and the accused forcibly entered, gagged her with a blanket, assaulted her, and fled through the window.
Principal Sessions Judge Tahir Khurshid Raina, who presided over the case, lamented the decline of moral values in the region, stating that such incidents reflect a “highest degree of depravity and sick mentality prevailing in society” that constantly demands urgent introspection. He expressed that the heinous nature of the act is a chilling indicator of a broader moral collapse that continues to tarnish Kashmir’s reputation as a “paradise on earth” known for its hospitality and rich cultural heritage.
The judge described the victim as a “revered guest” in the “land of saints and seers,” emphasizing the shock of her mistreatment. “She will live with remorse for having chosen Kashmir as her holiday destination,” he noted, categorizing the event as highly unfortunate and deeply condemnable.
The court found that the evidence, including the victim’s statement, medical opinions, and forensic reports, supports the allegations of a brutal assault. Judge Raina also pointed out the necessity of serious judicial scrutiny concerning such grave crimes, asserting that they cannot be overlooked lightly. “Mere meadows, mountains, and other natural beauty will not rescue Kashmir as a desirable tourist destination in light of these events,” he added.
The accused’s counsel alleged that his client was falsely implicated due to personal enmity and claimed that the investigation lacked fairness and thoroughness. However, the court rejected these assertions, emphasizing the need for a collective effort from the society’s moral “sheet-anchors and watchdogs” to address and rectify the prevailing ethical decay.
This case has sparked outrage and highlighted urgent issues surrounding women’s safety and the moral standing of society in the Kashmir Valley, emphasizing that introspection and action are necessary to restore the region’s integrity and image. The ongoing investigation continues to draw scrutiny as the court demands accountability and hope for a safer, more respectful environment for tourists and residents alike.
