Shinde orders probe into Ramban firing

Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde on Thursday ordered a probe into firing by the Border Security Force (BSF) in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban District which claimed seven lives.

"I sincerely regret the unfortunate incident which took place early morning today at Police Station Gool in Ramban in Jammu and Kashmir. The loss of lives in this incident is particularly saddening and I offer my deep condolences to the bereaved families," he told the media here.

Shinde warned that 'any use of excessive force or irresponsible action" will be dealt with strictly. "I have ordered an inquiry to be conducted without any loss of time to ascertain the circumstances which led to the firing. I assure that any use of excessive force or irresponsible action shall be dealt with strictly. I appeal to the people to maintain peace and allow normalcy to be restored," he said.

The Home Minister further informed that he has sent an Additional Director General of Police to look into the matter.

Seven people have been shot dead and over 20 others reportedly injured in clashes with BSF officers in Ramban district this morning.

The violence erupted at a BSF station in Gool town of Ramban district where a group of people had gathered to protest.