Indian home minister regrets firing of border guards in Indian-controlled Kashmir, orders inquiry

Indian Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde said on Thursday he regretted the killing of civilians when Indian border guards opened fire in Indian-controlled Kashmir and ordered an inquiry into the incident. At least four civilians were killed and several others wounded after Border Security Force(BSF) morning fired at a group of protesters at village Dadam, Gole of district Ramban, around 155 km south of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir. "I sincerely regret the unfortunate incident which took place early morning today in district Ramban," read an Indian Home Ministry statement quoting Shinde."The loss of lives in this incident is particularly saddening and I offer my deep condolences to the bereaved families." The protests broke out early morning outside a BSF camp in Gole to protest the alleged roughing up of a mosque prayer leader (Imam) and discretion of holy Quran at the hands of BSF personnel. Local residents said BSF personnel barged into a local mosque on Wednesday night and beat up the Imam, besides desecrating the holy Quran. The BSF action enraged locals who staged massive protests outside BSF camp Thursday morning. "I have ordered an inquiry, to be conducted without any loss of time, to ascertain the circumstances which led to the firing," said Shinde. "I assure that any use of excessive force or irresponsible action shall be dealt with strictly." However, the region's officials are tightlipped over the matter. Shinde has also urged people to maintain peace and help restore normal life. Meanwhile, the situation is tense in Ramban and protests are likely to spread to other parts in the region.