Fresh clashes in valley, parts of Srinagar shut down

Parts of old Srinagar city observed shutdown for second consecutive day today against the alleged highhandedness of security forces during clashes on Friday.

A group of youths blocked roads around Jamia Masjid, Nowhatta and Gojwara while the shops remained closed for second day to protest against the police and CRPF action on Friday, the official sources said.

Fresh clashes broke out between protesters and law enforcing agencies this afternoon as youths pelted stones at police and CRPF personnel in Nowhatta and adjoining areas, the sources said.

Police fired several tear smoke shells to bring the situation under control, they said.

Although the clashes were continuing till last reports were received, there were no reports of anyone getting hurt so far, the sources said.

The local residents accused the law enforcing agencies of ransacking the houses and shops in their areas during clashes with stone-pelting protesters after Friday prayers.

Hundreds of youths took to streets after Friday prayers to protest against the house arrest of moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.