Protest in Magam continue, Rs 1 lakh sanctioned for deceased youth

Srinagar, Dec 19 (UNI) Life at Magam in central Kashmir district of Badgam remained paralysed for the fifth day today in protest against police firing on villagers on December 15 resulting in on the spot death of one man and injuries to 25, including nine policemen.

The villagers were demanding setting up of a government degree college in the area.

Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, Khawaja Farooq Ahmad Renzu has sanctioned Rs One lakh in favour of next of kin of Zahoor Ahmad, who was killed in the police firing.

Official sources said shops and business establishments remained closed and traffic was off the road at Magam, where a large number of people joined the fourth day fateha khawani for Zahoor today.

People at Magam, a township situated at 30 km west of summer capital, took to streets on Saturday demanding opening of a degree college in the area. The Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to set up 18 new colleges across the state.

However, the demonstration took an ugly turn when processionists clashed with police on Srinagar-Gulmarg road.

Police opened fire resulting in on the spot death of Zahoor and injuries to 25 others, including nine police personnel.

A number of separatist leaders visited Magam to expressed solidarity with the agitated people.

UNI