Overview
- Anuj Kumar, 16, was fatally shot when his father’s rifle reportedly discharged at their Loyee Dhar home on Saturday night.
- Police identified the father as Village Defence Guard member Pyare Lal and said the incident occurred while he was cleaning the weapon.
- The body was taken to Chatroo hospital for post-mortem, the rifle was seized for forensic examination, and family statements are being recorded.
- J&K Police and the Army continue training VDG volunteers across the Chenab and Pir Panjal valleys, with a Poonch session guiding 140–150 members on weapon handling, firing practice, and operational issues.
- Village Defence Committees, now revamped as Village Defence Groups with police supervision and monthly remuneration, were formed in the 1990s to help secure remote areas.