Bush burnt in effigy, Muslims down shutters

Varanasi, Dec 30 (UNI) The ''headless'' effigy of US president George W Bush was burnt by ruling Samajwadi Party workers here today, while Muslim traders downed shutters, protesting against the execution of deposed Iraqi president Saddam Hussain.

Ruling SP workers, led by Dilshad Ahmad, gathered at the Benia Bag crossing and set afire the headless effigy of Bush wrapped in the US flag.

Shouting anti-US slogans, the SP workers demanded the American president also be executed for committing countless crimes against humanity in the name of fight against terror.

Another group led by members of Rahimia Asthana club also burnt in effigy the US president at Benia Bag. Holding the holy 'Koran', the protestors termed Saddam's execution as a violation of Islamic law.

Enraged over Saddam Hussein's early morning execution, Muslim traders in Dalmandi, Benia and Harha Sarai markets observed a complete 'bandh'.

The SP workers led by Haji Badruddin burnt the effigy of Bush in the weaver dominated Saraiyya Bazaar area and later offered special prayers 'Duakhwani' at the Lat Bhairo mosque for the peace of Saddam's soul.

UNI ARS VS RR BD1700