In Jammu and Kashmir, clashes broke out today between protestors and security forces in Nowgam area of Srinagar city over killing of two youths in army firing in Budgam district of Kashmir yesterday. The authorities imposed restrictions on the movement of people as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order. Groups of youth started pelting stones at police personnel posted on law and order duty in Nowgam area, minutes after the two deceased youth – both local residents – were laid to rest. Cops used tear smoke shells to chase away the protestors but intermittent clashes were going on in the area.

Two youth were killed and two others injured, who were traveling in a car, when they were fired upon by army personnel in Chattergam area of Budgam district at around 5 pm yesterday. The army claimed that the youths did not pay heed to signals to stop at three barriers set up by security forces. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also spoke to Defence Minister Arun Jaitley on the matter. Omar Abdullah said, the death of the two youths has vitiated the election atmosphere in the valley and stressed that such incidents have no place in an improving security situation in the state.

The Defence Minister has said that Budgam incident is highly regrettable, adding a fair inquiry will be held and action taken against those found guilty. The Army has ordered a court of inquiry into the incident to ascertain the facts even as it regretted the loss of lives in the incident. General Officer Commanding, 15 Corps, Lt. Gen. Subrata Shah said that a court of inquiry has been ordered. He assured that guilty would be punished.

Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Range, Abdul Ghani said that Police has lodged an FIR into the incident and started investigations. Ruling National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party have expressed shock over the killing of the two youth and have termed the killings, barbaric.