Restrictions back in downtown, SeK, Jamia still closed

Meanwhile, the historic Jamia Masjid in the SeK remained closed for devotees since August 5, when the Centre scrapped Article 370 and 35 A besides divided state into two Union Territories.

However, elsewhere in Srinagar and its outskirts large number of Central Paramilitary Forces (CPMF) remained deployed in strength to implement restrictions under Section 144 CrPC continued, banning assembly of four or more persons, for the past 40 days.

As a precautionary measure, district administration is imposing strict restrictions in the downtown and SeK to prevent any demonstration after Friday prayers which had become a routine every week. So far there was no major Law and Order (L&O) problem in down town and SeK since August 5 due to adequate security arrangements.

All roads leading to Jamia Masjid, stronghold of moderate Hurriyat Conference (HC) chairman Mirwaiz Moulvi Omar Frooq, were closed with barbed wire and by parking bullet proof vehicles at several places since early this morning. People from outskirts were being directed to take alternative interior routes to reach civil lines by the security forces.

No prayers could be offered in the historic worship place since August 5, when the main gates of the Masjid were closed. Large number of CPMF personnel remained deployed in the Jamia Market and outside to prevent people from assembling there.

CPMFs have also closed one tube of the main Nallahmar road at several places. Security forces have put up checking where people are being questioned and allowed to go only after checking their identity cards.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the restriction free areas shops and business establishments remained closed and public transport was off the roads. The number of private vehicles today was very less as compared to yesterday.

Work in government offices and banks remained affected while educational institutions also closed in the downtown, SeK and outskirts since August 5.