“The Army deeply regrets the unfortunate loss of life in the incident at Churat, Qaziund, where the troops were forced to open fire when a large mob turned violent”, said an Army statement.
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The Army Chief, a defence spokesman here said, was briefed by the Northern Army Commander Lt. Gen. DS Hooda and Chinar Corps Commander Lt. Gen. Satish Dua on the situation along the Line of Control (LoC) and in the hinterland including the measures initiated “to ensure Army’s close coordination with all other security and other government agencies towards maintaining peace in the Valley”.
It said when they contacted a government spokesperson during the Saturday meeting, he conveyed to them that in view of apprehensions of “serious trouble” in Kashmir Valley in next three days aimed at subverting peace, strict curfew will be imposed and movement of press staff and distribution of newspapers will not be possible.
Kashmir Valley is on the boil since July 8 following the death of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter in Kokernag district of south Kashmir.
The slain protesters identified as Saida Begum and Showkat Ahmad Itoo were killed after soldiers fired on people who were protesting against the killings following the death of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani and his two associates last week in a firefight with Indian soldiers.
Uneasy calm prevailed for the 12th day in curfew-bound Kashmir Valley on Wednesday where one more person succumbed to injuries, raising the toll to 45.
Normal life also remained paralysed for the 11th day on Tuesday due to a separatist-sponsored strike, which has now been extended till July 22.
Schools and colleges in the Kashmir Valley continue to remain closed after the government extended the summer vacations till July 25. Two other persons, including a woman, were killed and seven others injured in the incident that took place yesterday. They have also ordered a probe into the incident.
Mobile telephony and mobile internet services also remained shut while newspapers failed to hit stands. However, they have announced a relaxation of half day from 2.00 p.m. onwards on July 21.
In the firing, several people were left injured.
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A police spokesman said a security force party while removing a road blockade at Churaht, Qazigund came under heavy stone pelting by miscreants from two sides. The Army party warned the mob to maintain distance but it did not relent.
