Army fires in air to disperse demonstrators in north Kashmir

Baramulla, Jan 16 (UNI) Troops today fired in the air to disperse demonstrators who were protesting against the alleged torture of a villager near Handwara in north Kashmir.

Official sources said people took to streets in a village, about 24 km from Handwara, demanding action against security personnel who had allegedly beaten up one Abdul Ahmad Mir.

However, when the demonstrators reached near the main gate of a security forces camp, the troops resorted to lathicharge. They also fired several rounds in the air to disperse the people.

The demonstrators alleged that Mir was tortured by the troops during detention. He was, however, released later, they added.

About 15 people were injured in the lathicharge, the sources said.

UNI