Two civilians died in clashes with security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. While a 19-year-old was killed in Bandipora, a teenager died during protests in Shopian district, Greater Kashmir reported. Dozens were injured in multiple cases of violence across the Valley, even as curfew was imposed in all 10 districts in the state to prevent such incidents on Bakr-Eid.
There was violence in Handwara after a mob pelted stones at a police post. More than two civilians were injured in clashes with security personnel in Srinagar's Batmaloo locality. At least 44 incidents of stone pelting were reported from across Kashmir, the police said, adding that security forces exercised "maximum restraint" despite provocations.
Protests were staged after prayers in Srinagar's Abi Guzar area, with demonstrators carrying placards and demanding an end to civilians deaths in the region. Police and paramilitary forces were also deployed to stop a protest march called by separatist leaders to the office of the United Nations Military Observers Group in Srinagar's Sonwar neighbourhood.
Several people were injured in Kulgam district after security forces resorted to using aggressive means of crowd control after protestors defied curfew orders in the region. The restrictions prevented citizens from stepping out to offer prayers at larger mosques. This is the first time that all major mosques and shrines in the Valley were shut on Eid, including the famous Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar. Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and Opposition leader Omar Abdullah did not offered Eid prayers either, according to The Indian Express.
Internet mobile services were suspended in the Valley for 72 hours, starting Monday. The local administration deployed helicopters and drones to keep an eye on the state. The security measures were announced on Monday as Kashmir entered the 66th day of unrest since the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8. The toll from the violence has reached 82, with thousands being injured in clashes.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!