Two killed in firing by security forces

Srinagar, Nov 22 (PTI) Two persons were killed and
five others injured when security forces allegedly opened fire
at anti-election protesters in Baramulla town in the northern
Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir Saturday, official sources
said.

Manzoor Ahmad Kumar, a resident of Khanpora, was
killed when the Personal Security Officer (PSO) of the
Congress nominee from the constituency, who was campaigning in
Baramulla, allegedly opened fire at anti-poll protesters, the
sources said.

As soon as news of Kumar's death spread, protests
intensified in the town with more people coming out to the
streets, the sources said, adding that security forces opened
fire to disperse them in which another youth, Tanvir Shaikh,
was killed.

Police fired tear smoke shells and several warning
shots to chase away the protestors but in vain, the sources
said, adding that at least five persons were injured in the
action by security forces.

Meanwhile, Section 144 has been imposed in Baramulla
town to bring the situation under control, officials said.

"Two persons died in the hospital while four others
with bullet injuries were admitted. One of the injured has
been referred to Srinagar hospital for specialised treatment,"
Medical Superintendent of Baramulla District hospital Dr
Mohammad Shafi told PTI.

Shafi said the security forces also smashed the
ambulance and thrashed its driver who had gone to deliver the
body of one of the slain youth across River Jhelum in Old Town
Baramulla.

"The driver, Javed Ahmad, has been grievously injured
and now admitted in this hospital," he said.

Meanwhile, Baramulla District Magistrate Baseer Ahmad
Khan has ordered a magisterial inquiry into Kumar's killing.

"A magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the
incident. Additional Deputy Commissioner Development will
conduct the inquiry to establish the facts of the incident,"
Khan told PTI, adding that the officer will submit his report
within a week.