In a big blow to hopes of people of Kashmir men in uniform have once again resorted to civilian killings. A few days back as the events unfolded in North Kashmir Township of Handwara after the allegations of molestation on the security forces lead to heavy protests and in action of security forces three precious lives were lost.
As the pro-freedom groups announced strike call the very next day one more precious lives was lost in Kupwara.
These killings are a setback to recently sworn in Government of first ever women Chief Minister Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti.She too seems to be upset over all this.
Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti, met the Defence Minister, Manohar Parrikar, at Delhi and discussed with him the unfortunate firing incident at Handwara yesterday in which three civilians, including a woman, were killed.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister called for a time-bound enquiry into the incident so that those responsible for the deaths are handed exemplary punishment. This, she said, will act as a deterrent against such incidents in future.
Mehbooba Mufti said such incidents shake the confidence of the people and adversely impact the efforts of the State government in consolidating peace dividends.
She said the loss of lives of the innocent civilians cannot be compensated by whatsoever means.
However, she urged the Defence Minister to announce adequate compensation to the families of the victims, who have suffered such an irreparable loss.
The Defence Minister assured the Chief Minister of a detailed time-bound probe to fix the responsibility in the firing incident at Handwara. The Chief Minister also discussed several other wide-ranging issues with Manohar Parrikar.
Pertinently, the Defense Minister assured Mehbooba Mufti, as regards the issues raised, early positive consideration by his Ministry. One hopes a tough action is taken against those responsible for these innocent killings and these killings are stopped immediately.