SUMIT SHARMA
Jammu: A deeply disturbing case involving the death of a minor schoolgirl has shaken Chatroo in Kishtwar district, triggering protests, a police investigation and administrative action against a government teacher allegedly linked to the case.
The Chief Education Officer, Kishtwar, has suspended accused teacher Khalid Hussain, according to reports, after allegations emerged that the teacher was allegedly involved in the pregnancy of the minor girl. Police have also registered a case under stringent provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The allegations remain under investigation and are yet to be established by a court.
According to preliminary information available, the girl, aged around 14 years, was a resident of Bumalpora, Gurinal, Chatroo, and was reportedly studying in Class 5 at a government middle school in the area.
The minor was reportedly carrying a pregnancy of around six to seven months. Her parents and some senior villagers took her to GMC Doda for medical intervention. Following the reported referral for termination-related treatment, the family proceeded towards Jammu for further medical care.
However, during the journey, the girl reportedly died near Batote.
Her family subsequently brought the body back to District Hospital Kishtwar, where medico-legal formalities and post-mortem examination were conducted.
During the post-mortem examination, a foetus reportedly corresponding to approximately six to seven months of gestation was recovered from the deceased minor, according to preliminary information received.
The body of the minor and the recovered foetus were subsequently kept in the mortuary of District Hospital Kishtwar. Police personnel remained present at the hospital as further legal proceedings were initiated.
The medical findings, including the precise cause and circumstances of the girl’s death, will be crucial to the ongoing investigation.
Chatroo Police registered FIR No. 34/2026 at Police Station Chatroo under Sections 90, 91, 92, 61(2), 65(1) and 21 of the BNS, besides Sections 4, 6, 8, 10 and 17 of the POCSO Act.
The accused have been identified as Khalid Hussain, son of Ghulam Mohammad, resident of Sheikhpora, Gurinal, Chatroo, and his brother Tariq Hussain.
Police have arrested Khalid Hussain, while the role of his brother and the complete chain of events are being investigated. Media reports have also identified Khalid Hussain as a government school teacher/headmaster.
According to allegations being examined by investigators, the minor was allegedly sexually exploited and subsequently subjected to attempts to terminate the pregnancy through medication. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged administration of medication and its possible connection with the girl’s deteriorating condition and death.
The tragedy sparked protests in Chatroo and Kishtwar town after Friday prayers, with residents demanding justice for the deceased minor and stringent action against anyone found responsible.
Reports also indicated that commercial establishments in Chatroo and adjoining areas observed a shutdown amid public anger. Protesters and civil society members demanded a transparent and time-bound investigation into the case.
The incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of school-going children and the responsibility of adults entrusted with their education and protection.
The suspension of the accused teacher by the Chief Education Officer comes as the Education Department faces scrutiny over the allegations involving a school student.
The development is particularly significant as School Education Minister Sakeena Itoo had visited Chatroo on August 19, reviewing education and healthcare infrastructure and laying the foundation stone for remodelling of Government Higher Secondary School, Chatroo.
Investigators are now examining medical records, post-mortem findings, biological and other forensic evidence, witness statements and the circumstances surrounding the alleged pregnancy and attempted termination.
Police are also expected to establish the exact role of each accused and determine whether any other persons were involved in the events preceding the minor’s death.
The case has left the Chatroo community grappling with grief and anger, while the investigation will determine the facts behind the tragedy and fix responsibility in accordance with law.
The identity of the deceased minor has been withheld to protect her privacy. The allegations against the accused remain subject to investigation and judicial determination.
