Family of Indian Shot in Jordan Demands Justice and Accountability

Anil Thomas Gabriel was shot dead by Jordanian forces on February 10. His family, particularly his father Gabriel and wife Selin, demand justice, emphasizing he was not a terrorist but an Indian citizen with proper travel documents. The family questions the shooting’s justification and seeks accountability from the Indian government and embassy. Anil’s body has been returned for last rites in Kerala, with the family also seeking financial support.

Gabriel Thomas, father of Anil Thomas Gabriel, has publicly demanded justice following his son’s fatal shooting in Jordan on February 10. Gabriel insists Anil, a citizen of India, was not a terrorist and carried all necessary documents during his travel, including a visa. According to Gabriel, Anil traveled alongside his brother-in-law and last contacted him upon their arrival in Jordan.

Following his son’s death, Gabriel detailed the harrowing process of learning about Anil’s murder through an email from the Indian Embassy. He expressed outrage at the manner of the shooting, which occurred as Anil walked, with a bullet striking his forehead while the accompanying individual was only injured in the leg. “My son was not a terrorist–he was an Indian citizen,” he emphasized, calling for governmental action and a thorough investigation into the incident.

Anil’s wife, Selin Gabriel, conveyed her grief, recounting how he reassured her shortly after arriving in Jordan, promising to pursue their dreams together. In her plea for justice, she lamented not receiving any of his belongings. Anil, aged 42, was shot dead by Jordanian forces while attempting to cross into Israel, having traveled on a tourist visa with 43-year-old Edison, who was also wounded during the incident.

Reports indicate that Jordanian soldiers opened fire on four individuals, leading to Anil’s instant death. His family is now looking for financial support from the Indian mission. The community gathered to honor Anil during his last rites at the St. John the Baptist Church in Thumba, Kerala.

The underlying situation raises questions about the rules of engagement employed by military personnel, particularly concerning this tragic event at the border. The family’s demand for justice underscores the critical need for clarity and accountability in such circumstances.

In summary, the tragic death of Anil Thomas Gabriel in Jordan has sparked a heartfelt demand for justice from his family. Both his father and wife have made strong appeals, stressing Anil’s innocence as an Indian citizen. The family seeks accountability from the Indian Embassy and urges an investigation into the fatal shooting that has left them grieving and unanswered calls for assistance. The incident highlights the complexities and dangers associated with border crossings in conflict areas.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com