Srinagar, Mar 23, KNT: A spontaneous shutdown was observed across several localities of Srinagar’s old city on Saturday, as residents protested what they described as repeated excesses by police and paramilitary forces, particularly after incidents of stone pelting.
Commercial activity came to a complete halt in downtown areas such as Saraf Kadal, Nowhatta, Kadi Kadal, Bohri Kadal, and Maharaj Gunj. Shops remained shuttered, schools were closed, and traffic stayed off the roads throughout the day.
Join our WhatsApp Group
The protest, according to local residents, was sparked by continued alleged harassment by police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel during nocturnal raids and post-protest crackdowns. “After every episode of stone pelting, they target entire localities indiscriminately. Our homes are invaded and our families mistreated,” said Haji Abdul Gani, a resident of Nowhatta.
Demonstrators gathered at various locations and raised slogans against police action. Many alleged that security personnel use pepper gas and physically assault residents during search operations conducted under the guise of identifying stone pelters. “We are treated like cattle,” said Mohammad Yaqoob from Saraf Kadal. “Every Friday and Sunday night, they forcibly enter our homes. The elderly and even children are not spared.”
Join our Telegram Channel
📢 8,000+ readers already joined for instant Kashmir News Trust updates
Residents specifically demanded the removal of two CRPF bunkers — one in Kawdara and the other in Saraf Kadal — which, according to them, often become the flashpoints of confrontation. “These bunkers are frequently attacked by youth, and on that pretext, the CRPF retaliates by vandalizing our homes and beating up people indiscriminately,” alleged Mohammad Ayub, a shopkeeper.
In response to the mounting tension, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Srinagar visited several of the affected localities and interacted with residents. He reportedly assured the public that any instances of misconduct by police personnel would be taken seriously and strict action would follow.
Meanwhile, a senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, dismissed the allegations of excesses. “After stone pelting incidents, the accused often hide inside residential houses. Police are compelled to enter homes to trace them,” the officer said, adding that allegations about the use of pepper gas are unfounded. “All pepper guns have already been returned to the police lines. These claims are exaggerated and don’t reflect the truth.”
The situation in downtown Srinagar remained tense but under control at the time of filing this report. Security deployments were reportedly increased to prevent further escalation. [KNT]
