1 killed as protesters, security forces clash in Baramulla

SRINAGAR: Security personnel allegedly shot dead a youth in Srinagar on Saturday, triggering fresh protests in the Valley that is tense over several video clips showing alleged human rights violation by the armed forces.

A police spokesperson said they were trying to ascertain the cause and circumstances leading to the death of Sajad Hussain Sheikh, 22, of Chandoosa in Baramulla.

Sheikh was based at SD Colony in Batamaloo, on the outskirts of Srinagar. “Somebody shot somebody. We are verifying,” said Imtiyaz Parray, the Srinagar superindent of police.

J&K DGP, SP Vaid, said there were allegations that the youth died in firing by Border Security Force (BSF) jawans. “I spoke to SSP Srinagar, he told me they were trying to ascertain,” Vaid said. Residents of Batamaloo said the youth was hit on the head by a bullet.

OVER 50 STUDENTS WOUNDED IN CLASH

Over 50 students were wounded after security forces fired tear gas shells and pellets outside the Pulwama degree college in south Kashmir on Saturday.

Locals said clashes erupted between youth and security forces after the personnel set up a checkpost near the college.

The students objected to the move and started pelting stones at the security forces, who retaliated with pellets and tear gas.

A pellet victim, who was rushed to Srinagar’s SMHS hospital, said the security forces also barged into the college, which escalated the tension.

Health officials said the number of wounded was on the rise. “We treated at least 54 people with pellet and tear gas shell injuries. Three critically injured people have been referred to Srinagar. The injured students are still coming to the hospital,” said Pulwama’s CMO Dr Talat Jabeen.

There was heavy stone pelting on CRPF personnel at two locations in Pulwama injuring two jawans, said a CRPF spokesman.