A civilian was killed allegedly in Army firing in Kashmir's Kupwara, sparking protests (Representational)
Protests erupted today in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district after a taxi driver was killed allegedly in Army firing during an ambush last night. The Army said that the civilian died in the cross-fire between security forces and terrorists.
According to initial investigation, security personnel, who had had laid an ambush in Thandipora area following intelligence inputs about movement of terrorists, fired at Asif Iqbal, mistaking him for a terrorist. Asif Iqbal was rushed to a hospital in Kralpora from where he was referred to a hospital in Srinagar. He died of his injuries on the way, say police.
"An FIR he been registered. It's a very unfortunate incident and we have assured all possible help to the family," said Munir Khan, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir.
The Army said it has launched an investigation into the incident. "At around 10.55 pm, the military observed suspicious movement of three persons which prompted the security forces to open fire, leading to a gunfight," said Defence Ministry spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia. "In the cross-fire, a person, later identified as Asif Iqbal Bhat, a taxi driver, was killed due to a gunshot wound," he added.
Locals claim Asif left his home late last night after getting a call to ferry a patient to hospital. But just yards away from his home, security forces had laid an ambush.
Police said they are investigating the circumstances in which he was killed.
Hundreds took to the streets today in Kupwara, demanding action against the guilty. Several people including a senior police officer were injured as locals clashed with the police.
Mobile internet services have been suspended in Kupwara district as a precautionary measure, say officials.
(With inputs from Agencies)