Srinagar, May 19 (KMS): In occupied Kashmir, a custodial killing case of a student from Handwara is pending because Indian troops involved in the killing are not cooperating with the local police.

It was on June 24, 2003, when a party of 30-RR headed by Indian Army Major Manjeet Singh cordoned off Younuswahipora village in Handwara and started search operations. During the search, army arrested an 8th class student, Mushtaq Ahmed and a villager, Akbar Lone. Later, a loud explosion was heard near Akbar’s house in which Mushtaq Ahmed got killed and Akbar was seriously injured.

The killing sparked strong protest demonstrations in the area. The protesters were demanding action against the troops involved in the killing. Following the protests, a case was registered in the Handwara police station. The Deputy Commissioner Kupwara and senior police officials were asked to investigate the case but due to non-cooperation of the Indian army, no progress on the case has been made till date.