Kashmiri Pandit Activist Arrested in Cyberterrorism Case; Community Questions Charges, Seeks Fair Probe
A Kashmiri Pandit activist, Rakesh Handu, has been arrested on cyberterrorism charges, sparking controversy and calls for a fair investigation from his community. Handu claims he was unable to comply with police summons due to security threats and requested to participate via video conference.
Why it matters
The case raises questions about the application of cyberterrorism laws and the treatment of activists in sensitive geopolitical regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
Srinagar: The arrest of a Kashmiri Pandit activist by Jammu and Kashmir Police in connection with a cyberterrorism case has triggered concern within the community, with supporters questioning the charges and calling for a fair investigation. Rakesh Handu, alias "Bunty", was arrested by a team of Baramulla Police from his residence in Faridabad, Haryana, on October 17 in connection with FIR No. 151/2026 registered at Police Station Baramulla in north Kashmir. According to official documents accessed by ‘Republic TV’, the case was registered on September 12 under Sections 66F (cyberterrorism) and 84C of the Information Technology Act following a complaint lodged by Rohit Raina, a Prime Minister's Rehabilitation Package employee posted in the Finance Department in Baramulla. FIR pertains to the alleged circulation of electronic material through a publicly accessible social media account.
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