KL Report

SRINAGAR

The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has taken notice of the killing of two youth allegedly by Army in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district village of Markundal. Taking notice of a report appearing in a local vernacular daily, the commission has directed its office to file a suo moto complaint in this regard.

“The news item prima facie makes out a case of human rights violation. Therefore, a suo motto cognizance regarding the incidents in which two youth have allegedly lost their lives is hereby taken. Office to register the news item as a complaint,” reads the commission order, a copy of which lies with a local news agency, KNS.

The commission has also sought reports from Director General of Police and Deputy Commissioner Bandipora with regard to the killings.

“Registry will also summon Ghulam Nabi Ganai resident of Markundal, Hajin, Sonawari and Ghulam Qadir Laharwal resident of Kundbal, Ganderbal, fathers of the deceased subjects, so that they can file correct statement of facts regarding the incidents,” the order further reads.

The Commission has listed the case for July 31 before its single bench.

Human rights watchdog, Amnesty International on Tuesday had called uponn authorities to ensure that troops allegedly responsible for the killing of two youth in Bandipora on June 30 are investigated and prosecuted.

17-year-old Irfan Ahmad Ganai was shot dead outside his house in Markundal village, Bandipora district in the wee hours of June 30 allegedly by Army. Army authorities have said that the army was conducting a military operation in the area at the time, but have denied that they fired on anyone. Media reports have quoted eyewitnesses who said they had seen Army open fire at Ganai.
Hundreds of villagers then reportedly gathered to protest the shooting in the area. Some of them also reportedly threw stones at Army personnel in an army camp and at an Army ambulance vehicle. The soldiers opened fire, killing 24-year-old Tariq Ahmad Laharwal and injuring three others. An Army spokesperson has said that the soldiers fired in self-defence.

The J&K police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against unnamed Army personnel for the murder of Irfan Ganai. Authorities in the Army have said they are also looking into both incidents.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here