Who Was DSP Humayun Bhat? A Second-Generation Cop Who Followed In His Father's Footsteps

Among the three army and police officers who lost their lives in an encounter with militants in Kokernag area of South Kashmir's Anantnag district on Wednesday, Humayun Muzamil Bhat, at the age of 34, was the youngest. In light of that incident, let us take a moment to remember and reflect upon the life of Humayun Bhat.

Bhat, holding the rank of deputy superintendent of police (DSP), was a second-generation cop. His father, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, had retired as an inspector general of police in Kashmir. Colleagues and friends of DSP Bhat described him as a leader who consistently led from the front.

He had recently tied the knot and is survived by his wife Fatima, a one-month-old daughter, his parents, and a sister. The sight of his father at the wreath-laying ceremony for the young officer deeply moved people across the nation.

Senior superintendent of police, Imtiyaz Hussain, said, "Until recently, we were shouldering the coffins of our colleagues. Tragically, today we find ourselves carrying the coffins of our own sons who are losing their lives to this Pakistan-sponsored terrorism."

Ghulam Hassan Bhat, who had confronted militancy and managed severe law and order situations during his police career, was escorted to his son's coffin by another officer. Those few steps he took to bid farewell to his fallen son were perhaps the most agonizing moments of his life, even more harrowing than facing enemy fire.

Former director general of police, Shesh Paul Vaid, remarked, "Our colleague laying a wreath on the mortal remains of his son... Humayun leaves behind a month-old baby. Ghulam Hassan understood the risks associated with serving in the J&K police force and still supported his son's decision to serve the country."

The Kokernag operation marked the second major incident this year in which security forces lost three young officers, including Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak of the army's 19 RR, and Humayun Muzamil.

Hundreds of people from all walks of life attended Humayun's funeral on Wednesday night at his residence in Humhama, located in central Kashmir's Budgam. Director general of police Dilbag Singh and Kashmir additional director general of police Vijay Kumar were also present at the ceremony.

Humayun, who briefly worked with the social welfare department, joined the police service six years ago after passing the exam in 2018. His friends and acquaintances remember him for his humble and down-to-earth nature.

Advocate and political activist Sheikh Aamir expressed his shock and sorrow, saying, "I am devastated by the loss of my dear friend, a brilliant student, and a wonderful human being." Aamir recalled that Humayun used to visit him and his police officer brother at their Nowgam residence seeking guidance for the civil services exams. "His father would send him to us for guidance when he was preparing for the civil services. When he qualified and joined the police, I felt a sense of pride for being his mentor," said Aamir. He noted that, like his father, known for his integrity, Humayun had a lasting impact on everyone with his noble character.