Civilian killed in firing in Kashmir

One civilian was killed and several others injured in south Kashmir’s Pampore town on Tuesday when the Personal Security Officer (PSO) of a Sub-District Magistrate (SDM) opened fire at protesters.

Preliminary reports suggest that the SDM’s vehicle was stopped in the volatile Lethpora area of Pampore, 20 km away from Srinagar.

The area was tense after the police allegedly raided several mosques, damaged windowpanes and seized the public address system to stop airing of pro-Burhan Wani songs during the day.

The PSO allegedly opened fire after the vehicle was circled by protesters. One civilian, identified as Farooq Ahmad Kuchay, died immediately, pushing the death toll of civilians to 52 since July 8.

A posse of CRPF personnel reached the spot, sparking more clashes. The official’s car was burnt down.