Handwara violence: J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti holds security meet; directs police to ensure civilians' safety

New Delhi: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday held a high-level meeting to review the unfolding situation in the state, a day after four civilians were killed during a protest against an alleged molestation case.

At the meeting, the chief minister directed the police to ensure no harm is caused to civilians, PTI reported.

On Wednesday, four people were killed when soldiers opened fired to disperse a violent crowd which was protesting against an alleged molestation of a girl by an army jawan in Kashmir's Handwara town.

The Army has ordered an inquiry into the incident.

The chief minister said that such incidents have a “negative impact” on the state government’s efforts to consolidate peace efforts.

She said the security forces should exercise maximum restraint while dealing with public protests.

According to reports, an angry mob ransacked an army bunker after assaulting the security personnel.

Chief Minister Mufti on Wednesday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi to discuss various issues pertaining to the state including law and order.