Army regrets killing of 65-year-old by troops in Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 17 (UNI) Massive protests erupted at Tarigam village in Dooru Shahabad area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir after a 65-year-old man was allegedly killed by troops during a search and cordon operation early today even as the Army regretted the incident as a case of ''mistaken identity'' and ordered a court of inquiry.

The villagers alleged that 65-year-old Sonaullah Magray had come out of his house to offer Fajr (morning) prayers when he was shot dead by 59 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) troops who had laid an ambush in the area on the intervening night of December 16-17.

On hearing about the incident, the villagers gathered at the spot and protested against the killing.

The angry protestors alleged that Magray was killed in ''cold blood'' and refused to bury his body till the officials of the Army, the civil administration and the police reach the village and take action against the guilty personnel.

Deputy Commissioner, Anantnag G A Peer immediately rushed to the spot and assured the agitated protestors that strict action would be taken against the errant Army personnel.

He said adequate ex-gratia relief would be given to the relatives of the deceased who was a village numberdar (head).

On the Deputy Commissioner's assurances, the villagers agreed to give burial to Magray.

Police said the 65-year-old man was gunned down early this morning when he came in an ambush laid by troops of 59 RR in the village.

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