Accused of complicity in the Kishtwar violence, Jammu & Kashmir Minister of State for Home Sajjad Kitchloo tendered his resignation on Monday. Even as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah ordered a judicial probe into the riot, fresh violence erupted in some parts of the town on Monday.
Kitchloo’s presence in the area had raised eyebrows after he failed to effectively tackle the situation. local residents and Congress leaders accused him of masterminding the attack. Kitchloo said, “Certain political parties for their petty ends are trying to malign my name by blaming me for the incidents
At least eight people, including Additional SP, were injured during fresh protests in Kishtwar on Monday, as curfew restrictions continued in eight districts of Jammu division. The Amarnath Yatra, Budda Amarnath Yatra and Machail Yatra remained suspended, and internet connectivity remained snapped for the fourth consecutive day. The local cable channels were also blacked out to prevent rumour-mongering. So far 11 people have been arrested for their role in the Kishtwar violence.
Soon after a youth belonging to the minority community was picked up by the police, a large number of locals, including women, came out on streets in Kishtwar and protested against the police. The protesters clashed with police in which at least eight people, including ASP Kulbeer Singh and three cops, were injured. Four civilians were also hurt as the police resorted to lathi-charge.
However, the situation across the region remained peaceful as no major incident of violence was reported from any other districts placed under curfew.The State Government has announced an immediate relief of `2 lakh each to those whose houses, shops were damaged or looted by the mob on August 9.