SRINAGAR: Indian government forces fired tear gas and pellet guns at protesters brandishing Pakistani flags as the disputed territory of Kashmir marked Eidul Fitr on Monday. Authorities detained some pro-separatist political leaders to try to avert trouble on Eid, the day of festivities that marks the end of the Ramazan.
But stone throwing started as tens of thousands of people poured out of mosques in the main city of Srinagar after midday prayers. About 10 people were injured, according to Indian media. Daily troubles left 51 people dead during Ramazan in the Indian-held territory, according to the Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society. Civilians have been killed as they try to stop police and troops from arresting militants.
A police deputy superintendent was beaten to death by a crowd outside a Srinagar mosque last Thursday. More than 50,000 people gathered for prayers at the Hazratbal shrine and over 40,000 at the Eidgah. Youths started hurling stones at security forces as the masses poured onto the streets. Many waved Pakistani flags.
Published in Daily Times, June 29th, 2017.
