Clashes break out in city after prayers

Clashes erupted in the vicinity of Jamia Masjid this afternoon when youths threw stones on police and paramilitary personnel, who retaliated with a barrage of tear smoke shells.

The protest erupted immediately after mid-day congregational prayers when a large crowd of youths threw stones on police and paramilitary personnel, who had gathered in strength around the mosque.

The security personnel responded by firing a barrage of tear smoke shells. Local residents alleged that some tear smoke shells landed inside the mosque premises.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman of the moderate faction of Hurriyat Conference, in a statement, condemned the police action and accused it of desecrating the mosque.

Mirwaiz accused the police of beating up shopkeepers at Jamia Market, Nowhatta, Gojwara, Saraf Kadal and Rajouri Kadal and destroying their property and goods.