2 civilians killed, 2 injured in Army firing in Kashmir

Two civilians were killed and two others injured in Army firing today in Budgam district of central Kashmir when they did not stop their vehicle at check points.

An army spokesman Col Brijesh Pandey had earlier said the deceased were Army personnel.

He said security forces had an input about militants moving from Nowgam area of Srinagar to Pulwama district on the road passing through Chattergam area of Budgam district in a white private car.

"Three motor vehicle check points were established along the route to nab the militants. The car in which these youth were travelling did not stop at two check points when they were flagged down.

"They even broke through the third barrier at Chattergam leading to the security forces opening firing on them," Col Pandey said.

He said Army has ordered a Court of Inquiry into the incident to ascertain the facts.

"We regret the unnecessary loss of lives in the incident," he added. Earlier, Col Pandey had said four soldiers were injured in the incident and two of them were declared brought dead at hospital.

Superintendent of Police (PCR) Imtiyaz Hussain said an FIR has been registered and investigations have started. "The guilty, whosoever it may be, will have to face the law," he said.

Asked about the identity of the deceased youth, the police officer said it could not be ascertained immediately. "They are believed to be residents of Nowgam area," he added.