Srinagar: Muharram processions have been banned in Valley since militancy erupted in the region in 1990’s and now after revoking the special status in Jammu and Kashmir the authorities have imposed strict restrictions in many parts of the state to prevent the processions.
Shia Muslims in the country would take out mourning processions during this month of Muharram, HT reports.
The authorities have still not started communication lines in the region nor did remove the security lockdown in Valley since August 5.
On the 8th day of Muharram, restrictions returned to the city with concertina wires blocking roads every few 100 metres in parts of uptown as well as old city with thousands of security forces deployed on the roads to prevent the movement of people on Sunday.
“I travelled dozens of kms from interiors to reach this point. I have to go to hospital. Please allow me to pass,” pleaded Abdul Rashid requesting the security forces to let him pass the blocked bridge.
DIG, Central Kashmir, VK Birdi, did not answer the calls when reached from a landline.
An official spokesperson on Saturday said that in view of the imposition of Section 144 and to avoid any loss of life and property, govt has decided not to allow any processions in Srinagar on the occasion of Muharram.
Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Shahid Chowdhary speaking on the status said the restrictions have been imposed in some areas owing to Muharram adding that the authorities did not want any untoward incident to happen and that the Shias can carry out their religious functions inside their religious places.
Restrictions will remain imposed on Monday as well the officials added.