Army indicts JCO,8 soldiers for killing 2 youth in Chattergam

Army has indicted nine soldiers including a Junior Commissioned Officer of 53 Rashtriya Rifles for killing two youth in Chattergam Chadoora area of Budgam district on November 3.
Faisal Yusuf son of Muhammad Yusuf and Mehraj-u-din Dar son Ghulam Muhammad of Chattergam were killed while two other youth critically injured after soldiers of Army’s 53 RR opened fire on a Maruati Car at Chattegam on November 3, triggering Kashmir-wide rage and severe condemnation.
Soon after the incident, Police registered a case while Army ordered a court of inquiry into the killings.
Army termed the “incident” as “unfortunate” and promised to investigate the matter thoroughly. “Let me say this very clearly that we take responsibility for what has happened at Chattergam in Budgam district on Monday (November 3),” General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command, Lt General D S Hooda had said, adding, “Legal action will be taken if we find out that rules of engagement have been violated. We will complete the inquiry within 10 days.”
An Army official Wednesday told Greater Kashmir that nine people have been found involved in the killing of two youth. “The court of inquiry has found gross violation of rules of engagement by the soldiers. They have been indicted. There has been a total failure of the command by the officer in-charge of the Army column,” he said.
He said the court martial proceedings have been recommended against the soldiers. “The file has been sent for final approval to GOC-in-Chief northern Command. Hopefully we will get the approval by next week.”
The official, who wished not to be identified, said these soldiers are likely to face life imprisonment and lose all service benefits. “All these soldiers have been detached from the parent unit. They are not involved in active duty now,” he said.
Reliable sources in Army said the Court of Inquiry was held by Deputy Commander, Qazigund-based 2 Sector RR.
“The total number of soldiers in column at the time was 15. However, nine soldiers have opened fire,” they said.
Sources said over 70 witnesses including some from Army have recorded their statements before the inquiry officer.
The legal wing of Army’s northern Command is studying the recommendations of the COI, the sources said.
Pertinently, soon after the killings, the 53 RR company was relocated from the area. “We have relocated 53 RR Company from the area. Let us take one step at a time. We don’t want to make too many changes in the grid that is established in view of the elections. We did what was essential,” Lt Gen Hooda had said. “I am promising appropriate action will be taken.”