Minor girl mowed down by army vehicle, sparks protest

A nine-year-old girl was crushed to death by an Army vehicle here, sparking violent protests by the locals, police said on Tuesday.

The girl, identified as Khushboo, was hit by an army vehicle near Lasjan Bridge on the outskirts of the city last evening, police said adding that she died on the spot.

The driver of the vehicle SPM Sultana Ram has been arrested and a case was registered against him.
       
Soon after the news of the accident spread, hundreds of people assembled on the spot and damaged the vehicle, they said.

As the protest intensified and continued for long, Police fired teargas shells and used batons to disperse the protesters.

Police claimed that no one was injured during the lathicharge.
       
Meanwhile, army in a statement regretted the death of the girl and assured stern action against the erring driver.
       
A high level inquiry has already been ordered and the driver was arrested, a defence spokesman said adding that stern action will be taken against the driver.