Defence authorities to probe Bandipora killing of 5 civilians

SRINAGAR, Feb 9 (UNI) Defence authorities today decided to hold an inquiry into the killing of five civilians in a fierce encounter between militants and security forces at Bandipora last week.

A defence ministry spokesman said the probe will inquire into the circumstances and cause of the tragic incident.

He said it has also been decided that the army and civil administration will jointly take care of the families of the victims who lost their lives during the ongoing operation in Bandipora hills.

The spokesman said the Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, and the brigade commander today visited Bandipora and met local leaders and the bereaved families to express their grief.

The district commissioner disbursed ex-gratia relief and assured jobs to one member of the deceased's families.

The operation, launched by the army on February 5 in Bandipora Hills, was still going on.

So far, six militants, five civilians and three soldiers have been killed and one civilian has been injured, reports said.

The spokesman said it was decided to adopt the affected Chitti Bandi village by the army.