Soldiers set power transformers & bike on fire, allege locals

Kulgam: Locals from Tarigam village of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district Monday while accusing Army soldiers of harassment said that they set two power transformers and a motor-cycle on fire during a Cordon and Search Operation.

Reports said that clashes broke out between government forces and youth after the forces launched a cordon and search operation in Tarigam village.

The operation, according to sources, was launched after the forces received information about the presence of militants in the Makdum Mohalla of the village.

Reports said that scores of the youth assembled and pelted stones on the forces to disrupt the CASO. Forces retaliated with tear gas shells to disperse the protestors.

Locals said that soldiers in a bid to terrorize locals set two power transformers on fire. “They (soldiers) let loose a reign of terror. A parked motor cycle was burnt down by them. We have been facing power shortage already, now the area will reel under darkness due to damage caused to transformers by soldiers,” they said.

They said that a couple of locals also sustained pellet injuries. However, a police official said that they are investigating the matter. (CNS)