New Delhi: Conceding to the long standing demand of the locals, the Army has removed 3 of its bunkers from Handwara town, the site of last week’s clash between locals and security forces that led to killing of 5 civilians.
The bunkers were removed by municipal officials from the main market area of the town.
"Three bunkers, which were constructed on top of shops in Handwara main market, have been removed by municipal authorities," a police official said.
The officials also put up a board declaring that the spot would be turned into a public park.
The locals had been demanding for the removal of Army bunker for nearly 20 years. But the army had refused to remove its post saying it was strategically important for troops involved in anti-insurgency operations.
Also Read: Handwara: First arrest made after girl names accused in molestation case
Curfew has been in place in Handwara town and several other parts of Valley for nearly a week following violent clashes between local people and security forces after alleged molestation of a girl by a soldier.
The girl, however, has denied the molestation reports before the Handwara Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) in compliance with the directions of the High Court. Last night, police yesterday late night arrested a youth named Hilal Ahmad Banday whom the girl, who was allegedly molested, identified.
Meanwhile, curfew was relaxed in violence-hit Handwara town for 4 hours today but remained in force in Kupwara and Trehgam towns of north Kashmir.
