J&K releases 44 youths held in connection with stone-pelting cases

Authorities here on Tuesday released at least 44 youths, who were arrested in connection with cases of stone-pelting in Srinagar city, as a goodwill gesture on the occasion of Eid-ul Fitr.

Srinagar: Authorities here on Tuesday released at least 44 youths, who were arrested in connection with cases of stone-pelting in Srinagar city, as a goodwill gesture on the occasion of Eid-ul Fitr.

The youths were released as a pilot project for general amnesty for stone pelters. The amnesty scheme is under active consideration of the Jammu and Kashmir government, a senior official said.

In the aftermath of the Lok Sabha polls debacle, ruling National Conference president Farooq Abdullah had asked the state government to consider an amnesty for the youths involved in stone-pelting cases.

Police handed over to their parents 11 youths residing in areas falling under the jurisdiction of Nowhatta police station, 11 in Safakadal police station, 10 from Khanyar police station, nine from?Maharaj Gunj and three from Rainawari police station areas.

The official said police will keep an eye on the activities of these youths.
"If the results from this batch are encouraging, there is a possibility of more youths being released in the coming days," the official added.

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