Early Times Report
JAMMU, Nov 21: In the much-publicised case seeking the registration of an FIR over the tragic death of 35 pilgrims at Adhkuwari, Katra, enroute to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi on August 26, 2025, the SHO, Police Station Bhawan on Thursday filed an Action Taken Report (ATR) before the Court of Sub-Judge (JMIC), Katra in compliance with the directions earlier issued by the court.
The SHO had on the previous date of hearing, October 30, 2025, requested four weeks' time to file the report, but the court reluctantly granted three weeks, fixing November 20, 2025 for submission of ATR. On Thursday, the SHO appeared in person and placed the report on record.
The complaint seeking directions for registration of an FIR has been filed by Rohit Bali of Talab Tillo, Jammu, alleging that the 35 pilgrims lost their lives due to criminal negligence on part of the Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), Katra, and other officers/officials responsible for the management of the pilgrimage route.
The complaint asserts that despite Advisories and Red Alerts issued by the Meteorological Department, and a fresh advisory dated August 25, 2025, the Shrine Board authorities failed to suspend the yatra, resulting in pilgrims being caught in a massive landslide at Adhkuwari, leading to the death of 35 devotees.
According to the ATR filed by the SHO, no cognizable offence has been established so far against the Shrine Board authorities. The report states that the enquiry conducted to date has not revealed any material implicating the management in the commission of any offence. It further mentions that the Final Report of the 3-Member Committee constituted by the Lieutenant Governor/Chairman of the Shrine Board on August 29, 2025 is still awaited.
After taking the ATR on record, the court of Sub-Judge (Judicial Magistrate First Class) Katra, Sidhant Vaid, adjourned the matter and listed it for arguments on December 6, 2025.
Advocate Vishal Gupta appeared on behalf of the complainant. —(JNF) |
