J&K cops assault author David Devadas

J&K police was at its brutality best when they assaulted noted author David Devadas. Devdas, the author of In Search of a Future, the Story of Kashmir, published in 2007 was on his way to meet former MP Jaya Jaitely on September 5 when the incident occurred.

Though initially he did not lodge an FIR, after hearing a false FIR has been registered against him, Devdas has written a letter to chief minister Omar Abdullah expressing concern over his safety in Kashmir.

“After this experience (police thrashing), I am apprehensive about my safety. I would be grateful, sir, if you would kindly advise me on how best to proceed and whether you consider it safe for me to remain in Kashmir”, Devdas wrote to Omar.

The incident happened when he was crossing the Rambagh bridge. “Those who were in the convoy (behind me) had apparently got the impression that my car was obstructing their way, and became angry with me. The car was hit from behind.”

Later, Devadas was taken to a Sadar police station where he was allegedly assaulted by policemen.  “Then, the men from the security that had first hit my car rushed into the room and battered me again. They demanded again where the pistol was which they alleged I possessed. I was bleeding by this time as I was hurt on my face, elbow, hand and leg” he wrote.