Civilian killed in Kashmir firing

A 22-year-old civilian was killed allegedly in firing by security forces in a remote village of Baramulla district in north Kashmir, leading to protests in the area, official sources said on Friday night.

Ashiq Hussain, a resident of Lesar village in Rafiabad area of Baramulla district, 75 km from here, died after being hit by a bullet around 9 pm, they said.

Local residents alleged that Hussain was killed in firing by army personnel who were present in the area. The residents also staged protests against the killing.

A defence spokesman said troops of 32 Rashtriya Rifles and police had launched a joint operation following information about presence of militants in the area.

"At about 9 pm, some firing was reported and it is believed that a civilian has been killed in the firing. Due to darkness there are problems in ascertaining the details at present," the spokesman said in a statement.

Senior police and army officers rushed to the spot to monitor the situation and get further details, he added.