Two youths killed in Army firing in Kashmir

Deceased were part of mob comprising Handwara locals protesting alleged molestation of a girl student by soldiers

Srinagar: Two youth were yesterday killed when Army opened fire in Handwara, about 85 kms from here, to disperse a stone-pelting mob that was protesting against alleged molestation of a girl by some of its personnel. The killing triggered more protests in the town and had an echo in Srinagar and Pulwama districts of Kashmir as well.

Trouble started with protests by Handwara locals over alleged molestation of a girl student. According to the allegations, soldiers posted in an army picket in the town she molested the girl. The protestors pelted stones at the picket following which the soldiers opened fire, resulting in the killing of Iqbal Ahmad and Nayeem Bhat, sources said.

An Army official, while expressing regret at the loss of lives, said the matter will be investigated and anybody found guilty will be dealt with as per the law. A police official said the army personnel fled from the bunker soon after the death of two civilians.

Probe ordered
Army has ordered an inquiry into the killings. Lt Gen D S Hooda, heading the strategic Udhampur-based Northern Command, conveyed the decision to the Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti who had called him to take stock of the situation the situation on the ground.

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