When Justice Returns After Decades, Will 1989 Kidnap Case Finally Close Kashmir’s Dark Chapter?

New Delhi: The 1989 kidnapping of Rubaiya Sayeed is remembered as one of the most shocking incidents in Indian history. It began when terrorists abducted her, sending waves of panic across the nation. At that time, she was a 23-year-old doctor traveling home from a hospital. The incident forced the government into a difficult situation and is often referred to as one of the darkest chapters of Kashmiri conflict. The case went silent for years due to unstable conditions and fear of retaliation. Now, after 35 long years, it has been revived in pursuit of justice.

How Did The Kidnapping Happen?

On 8 December 1989, Rubaiya was returning from Lal Ded Hospital in Srinagar when JKLF militants halted the mini-bus she was in and abducted her at gunpoint. News quickly reached Delhi and caused national shock as she was the daughter of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who was serving as Home Minister. The kidnappers demanded the release of five jailed militants in exchange for her safety. After tense discussions, the government agreed and the terrorists were freed. Though Rubaiya returned unharmed, this decision emboldened militant groups and many experts believe it marked the beginning of a more aggressive phase of terrorism in Kashmir.

Why Justice Got Delayed?

The case was initially investigated by local police and later moved to TADA court. In the early 1990s, CBI took over the investigation. Due to political pressure, unstable security conditions and fear among witnesses, the case remained buried for decades. Files gathered dust and many believed it would never open again. Over time, attention faded and it seemed justice might never be served. However, even when progress appeared slow, the legal process continued quietly in the background.

How Did The Case Revive Again?

A turning point came in 2019 when Yasin Malik, JKLF chief, was arrested in a separate terror funding case. He was accused of masterminding Rubaiya’s kidnapping. With new momentum, CBI reactivated the case, re-examined evidence and traced witnesses. In January 2024, the agency filed a chargesheet against Malik and ten others in TADA court. They face charges of kidnapping, criminal conspiracy and illegal confinement. Names included Ali Mohammad Mir, Mohammad Zaman Mir and Iqbal Ahmad Ganderu. Some accused even confessed involvement before CBI under Section 164 of CrPC.

What Is Latest CBI Action?

Acting on secret information, CBI arrested another suspect, Shafat Ahmad Shunglu, from Srinagar’s Hawal area on 1 December 2025. He was first taken to Nishat police station and then into CBI custody. Officers say he may reveal important details that could help catch remaining accused. Tracking a fugitive after thirty-five years is extremely difficult, yet the arrest shows strong commitment to finish the case. Investigators believe this development could open fresh leads and may finally close all pending aspects of the probe.

How Did Rubaiya Support The Case?

In 2022, Rubaiya Sayeed broke her long silence and appeared before TADA court to testify. In an emotional moment, she pointed toward Yasin Malik and three other accused, identifying them as the men who had kidnapped her. Her statement strengthened the prosecution considerably. A key eyewitness also confirmed seeing the accused in Sopore after the incident and recognised Shunglu. These testimonies restored direction in the investigation and gave new energy to the case after decades of uncertainty.

Why Arrest Matters Even Today?

This action sends a strong message that justice may be delayed but cannot be denied. It gives hope to families who believe powerful criminals often escape law. The case proves crime has no expiry period and guilty will eventually be traced. Many see this as correcting a historical mistake when the government bowed to terrorist demands. CBI’s active approach also builds public confidence in the legal system. Experts believe this arrest may mark a step towards closure and healing of long-standing wounds.