Several parts of Srinagar city were sealed by security forces on Friday morning to disallow any Muharram processions, which remain banned since the 1990s in Kashmir valley.
Srinagar's Lal Chowk saw all main roads sealed with concertina wires. No movement of people and vehicles was being allowed by the security forces.
An official said curbs were imposed in eight police station limits in Srinagar as “Shia mourners were planning a procession.”
Today is the 8th of Muharram and Shia Muslims have been traditionally organising a procession from Shaheed Gunj to Abi Guzar to Dalgate areas on the occasion.
Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Pandurang K. Pole on Thursday announced fresh restrictions on religious gatherings in Kashmir “in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.”
Police had lodged a case recently against Shia mourners for raising pro-azaadi slogans. Another group of Shia mourners clashed with the police in Budgam on Wednesday.
Scores of Shia mourners were arrested earlier this week in parts of Srinagar's Lal Chowk when they tried to organise a traditional Muharram procession. Many Shia mourners were carrying red flags and some were carrying banners, reading “Free Kashmir” when they were detained by the police.
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