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Rehmatullah Padder (born c. 1997) is a Kashmiri environmental and social activist from Doda, Jammu and Kashmir. He has gained attention for his advocacy on environmental issues and his criticism of administrative inefficiencies in the Chenab Valley region. Padder has been detained multiple times under the controversial Public Safety Act (PSA), leading to widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and activists.[1]
Rehmatullah Padder | |
|---|---|
| Born | c. 1997 Bhatta Dessa, Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Activist |
| Known for | Environmental advocacy, activism in Jammu & Kashmir |
Rehmatullah Padder was born in the village of Bhatta Dessa in Doda district. He is the youngest of seven siblings in a family of modest means. Padder excelled academically, scoring 86% in his 10th standard and over 90% in his 12th standard examinations while studying at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Shopian. He aspired to become a doctor but could not pursue his dream due to his repeated incarcerations.[2][3]
Padder became known for his speeches criticizing state injustices, particularly in the aftermath of the 2016 unrest in Jammu and Kashmir. He has raised concerns over killings in the region and participated in protests advocating for justice. In later years, Padder expanded his activism to environmental issues, highlighting mismanagement of solid waste in Doda town and other administrative lapses.[4]
In 2024, he launched "Urban Insights," a web portal registered with India’s Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, aimed at addressing civic issues. Padder's efforts were well-received locally, but they also attracted scrutiny from authorities.[5][6]
Detentions Under the Public Safety Act
Padder has been repeatedly detained under the PSA, a law that allows for detention without trial. His first arrest occurred in August 2016, when he was accused of inciting protests and delivering provocative speeches.[7] Despite securing bail in related cases, his detention was extended under PSA provisions. The Jammu and Kashmir High Court quashed his detention in 2017, citing the denial of his fundamental rights.[8][9]
In November 2024, Padder was again detained under the PSA. Official documents accused him of being an overground worker for militants and maintaining links with Pakistan-based groups. Activists,[10] including Doda MLA Mehraj Malik,[11] have alleged that his arrest was politically motivated and linked to his criticism of local governance.[12][13][14]
Padder is married and has two children. His family has expressed concerns about the impact of his detentions on his health and future. His elder brother, Faiz Ahmad, has been vocal about the hardships the family has faced due to his repeated incarcerations.[2][15]
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