Sikhs protest in Srinagar against Jammu youth's killing

Sikhs held a protest rally in Srinagar city on Friday over the death of a Sikh youth in police firing in Jammu and demanded a judicial probe into the incident.

The protesters, carrying posters of Sikh militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, shouted slogans in favour of Khalistan and against the BJP and Jammu and Kashmir Police.

Over three dozen Sikh youths, who participated in the protest rally, also demanded the arrest of police officials who opened fire on Thursday in Jammu on protesters agitating against the removal of posters of Bhindranwale.

"Police unnecessarily vitiated the atmosphere in Jammu by removing posters of our leader Bhindranwale. He was leader of the Damdami Taksal and had a big role in imparting religious education among the Sikhs," said Jagmohan Singh Raina, chairman of All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee.

He said it was a religious function in Jammu and police interference was uncalled for.

"We want justice should be done by arresting the accused police officials and by suspending them," Raina added.

"Bhindranwale lives in our hearts. His graphics is on T-shirts worn especially by our youths. Will they (police) remove them too? We, particularly our youths, are ready to lay down our lives for him," he said.

He said that functions to commemorate Bhindranwale were held by Sikhs in every gurudwara and "will be held so, come what may".