Srinagar, October 25, 2021 (PPI-OT):In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the unprovoked killing of a civilian by Indian paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force in Shopian district on Sunday evoked strong reactions from local political parties. According to Kashmir Media Service, the martyred civilian was identified as a labourer, Shahid Ahmad.

Taking to Twitter, National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah said the policy of “shoot first” would further alienate people. “He was shot dead and his bag had no weapon or explosive. He was carrying fruit and vegetables.

This policy of shoot first will further alienate people. This is no way to make friends with the people or the youth of Kashmir,” Omar said. He was referring to Indian Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks on Saturday that he wanted to make friends with the youth of Kashmir.

People’s Democratic President Mehbooba Mufti said it was sad that the armed forces “operate with such impunity” in Kashmir. “Another innocent civilian killed by the CRPF in Shopian, today. It’s sad that armed forces show little restraint and operate with such impunity. My heartfelt condolences to his family,” she wrote on Twitter.

CPM-I leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami asked the authorities to probe the incident thoroughly to fix the responsibility. “The circumstances, in which the civilian was shot dead, need to be probed. Losing precious human life is unfortunate and mere condemnation of such heinous incidents isn’t enough,” Tarigami said in a statement. He also demanded compensation for the victim’s family. The Valley has in the recent past witnessed a spate of killings of innocent civilians. Over 20 Kashmiris have lost their lives, this month, so far.

For more information, contact:
Kashmir Media Service
Phone: +92-51-4435548, +92-51-4435549
Fax: +92-51-4861736
Email: info@kmsnews.org
Website: www.kmsnews.org