Srinagar reels under curfew for third day

Srinagar, Nov 30 (IANS) Curfew continued for the third day in most parts of summer capital Srinagar, as authorities feared sectarian violence after Friday prayers.

Srinagar District Magistrate Basheer Ahmad Khan told reporters that curfew would continue in nine police station areas Friday. The curfew was imposed Wednesday.

The district magistrate said authorities would review the situation in the evening to make a decision on the future course of action.

Sectarian clashes between Shia and Sunni Muslims erupted in Hawal area of the old city Wednesday evening, and police intervention triggered clashes between protesters and security men.

Curfew will continue Friday in Lal Bazar, Zadibal, Nigeen, Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, M.R. Gunj, Safakadal and Parimpora police station areas.

Main roads in these areas have been blocked off, with vehicles of security forces parked across roads. Coils of concertina wire has also been used to block thoroughfare.

Police and Central Reserve Police Force personnel have been deployed even in areas in the city not under curfew.

Senior separatist leaders, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, Syed Ali Geelani, Shabir Shah and Muhammad Yasin Malik have appealed to the people to maintain calm and not to fall prey to anti-social elements.

Educational institutions, government offices, banks, post offices, public transport, shops and other business establishments will not function in areas under curfew Friday.

Kashmir University has put off all examinations scheduled for Friday.

IANS 2012-11-30 10:22:06