ISHRAT BHAT

Poonch, June 3: Despite passing of a year after killing of three civilians here, police is yet to take any action against the five accused policemen including a DSP. 
 Though the Government had ordered registration of murder case and a high level probe in the killing of three civilians here following public outcry last summer, it has “suitably posted” the suspended officer and other accused cops.
 At least three local youth were killed and 20 others wounded on September 15, 2010 when police opened fire on a mob protesting against the alleged desecration of Holy Quran.
 Officials said that immediately after the incident, a case FIR No. 182/2010 under Section 302/24 RPC was registered against SDPO Mendhar Vivek Gupta, Constables, Abdul Hameed, Rakesh Kumar, Muhammad Saif and SPO Muhammad Assi
 Government had admitted that the civilians were killed in the police firing and even asked the Divisional Commissioner Jammu to hold inquiry in the incident.
 However, locals said that till today neither any inquiry report has been submitted to the Government nor any of the accused have been arrested.
 “What kind of investigation is it when the accused are roaming free”, Muhammad Hussain, a local said.
 Police sources said that after remaining under suspension for few months, the accused DSP, Vivek Gupta has been reinstated and posted in Leh district.
 Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mendhar Yogal Manhas said that the investigation of the case was under process. “The matter is still under investigation and we can’t raise fingers on any one at this stage,” the ASP said
 The family members of the deceased have maintained a silence over the matter apparently fearing for their life. “We are living near the Line of Control and we know we can never get justice”, Sadiq Shah, father of one of the deceased said. “We can’t afford to create any rift with the police department.  We have left everything to God”, he added.
 The Government had paid an ex-gratia relief of Rs 5 lakh to the family of each slain youth. “But money can’t bring my beloved child back”, Shah said.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 3 Jun 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 3 Jun 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 4 Jun 2011 00:00:00 IST