Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 22: The police have arrested a man in connection with the yesterday’s violent protest by a group of people in Hiranagar area.
Giving a statement in the Legislative Assembly, Parliamen-tary Affairs Minister, A R Veeri informed that on 21.01.2018, people had gathered at the residence of Mohammad Yousuf for condolences and Fateh Khawani on the 4th day of the death of the deceased minor girl Asifa.
He said subsequently, at about 1600 hrs, a mob of protesters led by one Talib Hussain and one Nazakat Khattana blocked NHW at Chan Morian tehsil Hiranagar.
He said SSP Kathua along with Additional SP Kathua, SDM Hiranagar, Dy SP Hqrs Kathua and SDPO Border, Chadwal immediately rushed to the spot and tried to pacify the agitating mob. The protestors were briefed about the status of the police investigation and further course of action in the case of the minor deceased girl.
“The SDM Hiranagar also tried to persuade the protesters to open the NHW but they remained adamant and demanded the presence of the Deputy Commissioner Kathua at the spot and assured to open the road after DCs arrival,” the Minister informed. He said however despite the arrival of the Deputy Commissioner Kathua on the spot, they continued the blockade of NHW.
The Minister informed that though, the DC and the SSP, Kathua assured them that a free, fair and impartial investigation is being conducted, yet they continued to obstruct the movement of traffic for over 04 hours.
“Thereafter, suddenly some miscreants within the mob started stone pelting and attacked the officers present on spot with sticks/ iron rods, etc. they were carrying. Due to this action of the protestors, 4 police personnel got injured and one civilian has also been injured in the incident,” Veeri said, adding subsequently, the mob was dispersed using mild lathi charge and movement of traffic commenced at about 2030 hours.
Meanwhile, the Minister said a Special Investigation Team headed by the Addl SP, Samba has been constituted on 20.1.2018, with a view to ensure speedy and fair investigation into the death of the minor, while, the SHO of Police Station Hiranagar has been placed under suspension. “In addition, the District Magistrate, Kathua has ordered an independent inquiry into the matter,” he added.
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