Thousands defied curfew restrictions in Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 11 (UNI) Thousands of people defied the curfew restriction and came out in streets in different parts of the valley, protesting against the death of Peoples League (PL) chairman Sheikh Abdul Aziz and others in police firing today.

As the body of Mr Sheikh reached the historic Jamia masjid, thousands of people, including women and children, reached there from different areas.

A resident from Shar-e-Khas told UNI over phone that thousands of people inside the mosque, raising slogans.

Chairman of the moderate Hurriyat Conference (HC) said the body of Mr Sheikh will be laid to rest only after the curfew is lifted and all those under house arrest released so that they too could participate in the Nimaz Jinazah of Mr Sheikh.

Nobody is inside their houses as people are on roads, protesting against the police firing on peaceful processionists, he said.

Reports of late night demonstrations were also received from entire old city, including Chota Bazar, Habba Kadal, Kani Kadal and Khankah-e-Moula.

People also defied restrictions and raised slogans in the outskirts.

A report said thousands of people also took to streets at Pampore, the home town of Mr Sheikh.

UNI BAS CS GC2330