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North Kashmir on Boil, 10 Injured in Clashes

By Fayaz Wani

Srinagar, March 19: The North Kashmir continues to be on boil and at least 10 persons including two policemen were injured in the day-long clashes on Friday.

The youth took to roads in the apple town of Sopore, some 54 kms North of Srinagar on Friday afternoon and staged demonstration. Chanting pro-freedom and anti-India slogans, the youth were protesting against what they termed police harassment. They were also demanding action against the policemen who shot dead a civilian, Tanvir Ahmad, after a recent militant attack in the area.

As the protesting youth tried to stage rallies, they were intercepted by police and paramilitary personnel, who resorted to baton charge and fired tear smoke shells towards the protestors. The protesting youth retaliated by hurling bricks and stones towards them.

The clashes continued for quite some time and at least seven persons including a policemen were injured.

The locals alleged that after the clashes, police and paramilitary soldiers barged into some residential houses, ransacked the household goods and beat inmates including womenfolk.

Meanwhile, the clashes also broke out between youth and cops at Baramulla town in North Kashmir after Friday prayers. At least three persons including a policeman were injured in the clashes.

The injured policeman received head injuries and was shifted to Srinagar hospital for specialized treatment.

Meanwhile, all shops and business establishments remained closed and transport was off the roads in Sopore for the third consecutive day on Friday.

Fayaz Wani reports on life in Srinagar, Kashmir.