In an unexpected legal move, the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has initiated a suo motu case concerning the retrieval of a young man’s body from Pakistan. The 20-year-old, Harsh Nagotra, reportedly drowned under mysterious circumstances in the Chenab River, with his body later found on the Pakistani side.
A bench comprising acting Chief Justice Tashi Rabstan and Justice Rajnesh Oswal responded to the matter after hearing from Nagotra’s parents, who petitioned for the return of their son’s body for last rites. Despite dismissing a public interest litigation (PIL) brought forth by another party, the court chose to take independent action due to the unique circumstances presented.
The court has issued notices to the Union Government and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, seeking a response within a week. The next hearing is scheduled for July 29. The case, now officially registered under ‘Court on its own motion vs. Union of India and others,’ highlights the court’s proactive stance in addressing the family’s urgent plea.
