In a case of mistaken identity, troops of the Rashtriya Rifles on Monday shot dead an elderly person in Badgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, sparking protests by locals, official sources said in Srinagar.

Rashtriya Rifles troops had laid an ambush in Narwarah village following information about the possible movement of militants.

As 60-year-old Mohammad Ramzan Dar left his house to offer morning prayers, the troops mistook him for a militant and opened fire, killing him instantly, the sources said.

Locals took to the streets demanding action against the erring personnel.

However, the protestors dispersed after the additional deputy commissioner, Badgam, visited the area and assured them that he would take up the matter with army authorities.