Youth killed in firing

A Class XII student was killed and another civilian was grievously injured when security forces opened fire during clashes with protesters in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Monday evening.

Reports said the protesters were demanding return of mortal remains of Parliament attack convict Mohammad Afzal Guru, who was hanged in Tihar Jail of Delhi on this day in 2013. This was the first civilian killing of 2014 at the hands of security forces.

Police said two civilians sustained injuries in firing incident in Palhalan, Baramulla, 32 km from here. “Farooq Ahmad Bhat, 19, of Bhagat Mohalla, Palahan succumbed to injuries on way to hospital. Another injured Riyaz Ahmad Bhat is undergoing treatment,” Inspector General Police (IGP) Kashmir Abdul Gani Mir told reporters.

He said police have taken cognizance of the unfortunate incident and an FIR has been registered. “The incident is being investigated and all concerned are being questioned to ascertain the facts,” the IGP added.

Eyewitnesses told Deccan Herald over phone that protesting youth shouting slogans pelted stones on police and security forces deployed in the area. “In retaliation, initially security forces fired tear gas canisters. However, when the protesters didn’t disperse, forces opened fire in which Farooq was killed and a few others injured,” they added. “The slain youth had received two bullets on arms and one on face. He was immediately shifted to hospital in Srinagar where doctors declared him brought dead,” eyewitnesses added.

Meanwhile, separatist organisations condemned the killing and appealed to the people to observe a complete shutdown on Tuesday against the incident.