Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Nov 3: Authorities today allowed Friday congregational prayers at historic Jama Masjid in Nowhatta area of summer capital after five weeks.
After remaining locked up for past five consecutive Fridays due to curfew-like restrictions in downtown Srinagar, the mosque was finally thrown open today for congregational prayers as no curbs were imposed in any part of city.
Moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman and cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was also allowed to offer prayers at mosque and deliver his weekly sermon. In his sermon, the Mirwaiz condemned authorities for imposing curfews in downtown city and locking up Jama Masjid.
Thousands of people offered Friday congregational prayers at the Jama Masjid. The prayers culminated peacefully but a minor incident of stone-pelting occurred near the mosque which was however contained by security forces shortly.
While the situation in and around the Jama Masjid remained peaceful, clashes erupted in neighbouring Nawa Kadal area of the downtown between youth and security forces in the afternoon. Police used teargas canisters to disperse the youth. The clashes in the area affected business and vehicular activities.
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