Syed Nashir Ali Gillani
Srinagar, Sep 19: The restrictions imposed on Wednesday to thwart the Muharram procession gave a tough time to the commuters.
On 8th Muharram, the Shia Muslims take out a procession from Guru Bazar, Karan Nagar, Imam Bargah, Dalgate, passing through Jehangir Chowk.
Following the practice that began with the start of armed struggle in the valley, the government, however, imposed restrictions in most parts of the city to disallow the mourning procession.
The restrictions were imposed in Gaw Kadal, Barbarshah, Muniwarabad, Habba Kadal, Karan Nagar, Batmaloo, Lal Chowk, Koker Bazar, and Hari Singh High Street areas of the city.
Concertina wires were laid at major junctions in uptown including at TRC, Dalgate, Regal Chowk, and Koker Bazar.
In downtown, the barricades were placed at Habba Kadal, Rainawari, and Sakidafar.
“It is for the first time that I am seeing such severe restrictions. It is very hectic to move around,” said Bashir Ahmad at Regal Chowk.
At Sakidafar, a stone’s throw distance from the SMHS Hospital, a commuter Imran Ahmad said he was struggling to reach the hospital to meet his ailing relative.
“I came all along from Kanipura. Somehow, I reached this spot. But I am not able to proceed beyond this point. Even ambulances were struggling to move in the huge traffic jam,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq took to social media to condemn the restrictions.
He tweeted: “Srinagar held hostage by rulers to disallow Muharram procession! Curbs and restrictions on public movement everywhere.”
“Roads and alleys leading to hospitals especially SMHS also blocked. Sick being made to suffer! Harassment of people keeps getting worse by the day.”
Despite restrictions, processions were attempted from Dalgate and Batmaloo area.
Police resorted to baton-charge and tear gas shelling to disperse the mourners.
Many mourners were detained.
