Source: Twitter video recorded by a Kashmiri local
An Indian army officer has used a male civilian as a human shield in the disputed Kashmir region at the border with Pakistan. Major Leetul Gogoi tied the civilian to the back of a military vehicle in order to defend itself against alleged stone pelters.
Following the incident, Gogoi received an award by the army for his ‘sustained efforts’ in counter-insurgency operations.
“Major Gogoi has been awarded Chief of Army Staff’s Commendation Card for sustained efforts in counter-insurgency operations,” Army spokesperson Aman Anand said.
A video showing the man (Farooq Ahmad Dar) tied to an army vehicle during polling in the Srinagar Lok Sabha by-elections appeared on April 9.
Following the incident, some Indian sources described the use of human shields as “a wise idea” to defend Indian forces operating in the area.
