Army probes video of ‘human shield’ in Kashmir

srinagar — The Indian army is investigating allegations a man was tied to a jeep and used as a human shield by soldiers in Kashmir after video of the apparent incident generated outrage.

The 11-second clip, which went viral on social media Friday, showed an unidentified man bound to the front of an army jeep as it led a convoy through Budgam district in Jammu and Kashmir.

A voice speaking Hindi in the background can be heard saying “stone throwers will meet a similar fate” as villagers watch.

Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said in a statement Fon riday the video was being examined.

“The contents of the video are being verified and investigated,” he said.

Budgam district was the scene of violence this week as police and paramilitary officers opened fire on thousands of protesters shouting slogans against Indian rule during a local poll.

Eight civilians were killed and dozens wounded in the election violence, including troops who were pelted with stones.

The footage of the man bound to the jeep caused outcry and demands for an immediate inquiry.

“This young man was TIED to the front of an army jeep to make sure no stones were thrown at the jeep? This is just so shocking!!!” the state’s former chief minister and opposition leader Omar Abdullah posted on Twitter.

Last month, a photo of an 11-year-old Kashmiri boy being forced to do sit ups by Indian troops triggered widespread condemnation.

Soldiers battling armed rebels often come under a hail of stones from civilians. —