Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 20: The Friday prayers were held in Jamia Masjid Srinagar for the first time since July this year as the grand mosque was sealed by the security forces as there were apprehensions of protests.
Prior to the abrogation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, the Jamia Masjid was sealed by security forces in July this year as there were apprehensions of violence No prayers had been offered at the Jamia Masjid till December 18.
Two days ago, the grand Mosque was opened first time for prayers. This was the first Friday since July when prayers were allowed. Click here to watch video
Immediately after the Friday prayers a peaceful protest was held in the compound of Jamia Masjid. Raising slogans and carrying banners, the protesters were seen marching inside the compound of the Masjid. However, the protesters dispersed peacefully later.
Authorities had pressed in drones to keep an eye on the protesters. In Nowhatta and adjoining areas, authorities had deployed police and paramilitary forces in large numbers to deal with any eventuality.
However, Miwaiz Umar Farooq, who delivers weekly Friday sermons at the Jamia Masjid, remained under house arrest at his Nigeen residence since August 5.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
