Srinagar, Dec 07 (KNS): While locals in Hajin area in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district continue their protest against Army for “vandalising houses, ransacking property, setting stacks of dried grass on fire”, Army Thursday said these are all baseless allegations against the forces.
Army said they were forced to fire some aerial shots to make out safe passage for the patrolling party to reach its destination.
Srinagar based Army spokesperson Col Rajesh Kalia told KNS that “Army didn’t indulge in vandalising or ransacking of property. There are all baseless allegations against Army”.
Giving details about the incident, Kalia said actually an Area Domination Patrol of 3 Sector RR was passing through Hajin when it came under heavy stone-pelting by a mob.
Kalia said the Patrol Party Commander cautioned the crowd not to indulge in stone-pelting, however, the mob continued to target the patrol, injuring three soldiers.
“After giving a final warning, a few rounds were fired in air to disperse the mob and the Patrol Party moved to its destination”, he told KNS.
Pertinent to mention here, the locals on Wednesday protested against army highhandedness and observed shutdown the township, where militancy is witnessing signs of increase over the last one year.
DC Bandipora Sajad Hussain Ganaie was not available for his comments as his phone was continuously switched off. (KNS)