People in south Kashmir protest against Army, Defence denied reports

Srinagar, Feb 1 (UNI) People at Tral in south Kashmir took to the streets in protest against alleged desecration of a place of worship by troops late last night.

However, a defence spokesman denied the allegation and said the protest was at the behest of militants because of a massive offensive launched by the security forces in the area.

Official sources said hundreds of people at Tral, about 35 km from here, took to the streets this morning alleging that troops had entered a mosque and showed disrespect to holy books late last night.

The demonstrators, who also blocked main roads in the town, alleged that troops also beat up devotees in the mosque.

The spokesman denied that troops had entered the mosque.

The allegations are totally baseless to defame the troops, he said, adding troops enjoy good relations with the local people.

He said a group of people was forced by militants to protest against the army. Militants are under pressure because of the major offensive launched by the troops in the area, he added.

He said troops in the valley have been directed in clear terms that no Human Rights and other violations would be tolerated.

The spokesman said operations against the militants will continue.

UNI