 M S Nazki
Early Times Report
POONCH, Dec 6: People today held a protest in Mendhar town against police for 'beating up' two alleged bovine smugglers, claiming that the duo were innocent and had nothing to do with the cattle smuggling racket.
The protesters also included the activists of Tata Sumo Union, Mendhar. They said Mushtaq Ahmad, son of Lal Hussain of Bonala, and Ramzan Syed, son of Muhammad Ramzan of Salwah, were apprehended by police five days ago.
"They had taken lift in a Tata Mobile which, according to police, was used for bovine smuggling. Quoting police, they said the driver fled the spot after he was signalled to stop," the protesters said, adding that the duo had nothing to do with cattle smuggling.
The protesters alleged that the youth had been beaten to pulp by the cops. While the protest was on, a police party rushed to the spot and dispersed protesters. However, they regrouped and blocked Mendhar-Jammu road, seeking action against the erring cops. Later, the Mendhar SDPO and SDM reached the spot and pacified them while assuring a probe into the incident.
After the two youth were released on bail, people took them to Mendhar SDH for treatment. They were later referred to the district hospital, Rajouri.
People have demanded immediate transfer of the guilty police officer and threatened a strike in case SPP, Poonch, doesn't visit them by tomorrow. |
