Army 'deeply regrets' loss of life in Qazigund, orders inquiry

SRINAGAR: Army today "deeply regretted" yesterday's firing incident in Qazigund in Anantang district in which three persons were killed and ordered an inquiry into it.

"The Army deeply regrets the unfortunate loss of life in the incident at Churat, Qaziund where the troops were forced to open fire yesterday when a large mob turned violent, resorting to heavy stone pelting and attempted to snatch weapons from the soldiers," defence spokesman said here.

He said Army will provide all possible assistance to the bereaved families and to those injured in the "unfortunate" incident yesterday.

"An inquiry has been ordered into the incident," he said.

The Army also appealed to the people to maintain peace and refrain from attacking security forces or their vehicles.

"Army today appealed to the people to maintain peace and refrain from attacking security forces or their vehicles or establishments thus creating situations where the security forces are left with no option but to retaliate in self defence," the spokesman added.

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.

"Some miscreants tried to snatch weapons from them and tried to set ablaze the vehicles. Despite repeated warnings the mob did not disperse and army fired in self defence in an effort to move out from the spot," the spokesman said, adding three persons were killed in the incident. Six others were injured.