‘Rape, murder’ of minor girl sparks outrage in Kashmir, one arrested

The J&K Police arrested a local youth on Monday (May 25, 2026) amid a public outcry over the alleged rape and murder of a minor who went missing on May 23 in Budgam, central Kashmir.

“Over the last 36 hours, we questioned multiple suspects, and it emerged that a local was most likely responsible. After a while, one of the suspects finally admitted his involvement in the crime,” Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Budgam, K.K. Hari Prasad, said.

The accused is a resident of Galwanpora. “The motive behind the crime remains under investigation and forensic and investigative procedures are continuing,” the SSP said.

The victim, who is believed to be around 12, went missing on Saturday (May 23, 2026) and her body was recovered several meters away from his home on Sunday (May 24, 2026). A copy of the Quran and her shoes were also found lying near the crime spot. The victim is a daughter of an assistant sub inspector (ASI), who serves in the J&K Police. 

Strong reactions

The incident sparked outrage with strong reactions pouring in from regional leaders and civil society groups, which sought stringent action against those involved in the crime.

“If such a heinous crime can be perpetrated against the daughter of a police officer, then who among the general public here in Budgam is truly safe? The CCTV cameras at the location where her body was discovered, specifically outside the house where she was found, were deliberately smashed. I await action against this man; we do not know if he committed these acts while under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” said Peoples Democratic Party leader Iltija Mufti.

Ruling National Conference (NC) leader and Member of Parliament, Aga Syed Ruhullah, visited the victim’s family on Monday (May 25, 2026). “The brutal killing of a 12-year-old girl in Galwanpora, Budgam has shaken the conscience of our society. Such incidents are deeply disturbing and have left people in grief and outrage. Our children deserve safety, dignity and protection. The pain of this tragedy is being felt by every sensitive heart today,” said MP Ruhullah.

Call for swift probe

The NC leader, also a well-known Shia cleric, urged the authorities “to ensure a swift, transparent and time-bound investigation so that the truth is revealed and those responsible are held accountable under the law”.

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdulla said the tragic murder was “both shocking and deeply distressing”.

“While the appropriate agencies enquire into the circumstances of her murder, it’s also fitting that we reflect on where we as a society are headed when our young children are not safe,” said Mr. Abdullah.

Mr. Abdullah said his government will support the agencies to the fullest extent possible “to ensure that those found guilty face exemplary punishment”.