Pak flags hoisted, tricolour burnt in Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 14 (PTI) Police lobbed teargas shells
and used batons to disperse a group of youths who set ablaze a
tricolour and hoisted Pakistani flags at a few places and
raised slogans in favour of the neighbouring country on the
occasion of its Independence Day Friday.

Securitymen swung into action after over 200 youth
took to the streets outside Jamia Masjid in downtown Srinagar
in India's northernmost state shortly after Friday prayers,
burst crackers and clashed with police personnel, official
sources said.

Chanting "Long live Pakistan" and "We want freedom",
the youth pelted stones in retaliation to the teargas and cane
charge triggering clashes, they said.

As the situation became tense, security reinforcements
were rushed to the spot to check violence from spreading to
other areas.

Sources said Pakistani flags were also seen hoisted on
electric poles and trees at two places in Ganderpora locality
of Eidgah in downtown Srinagar and several places in North
Kashmir, Baramulla and Sopore townships including Ningli and
Batpora early this morning.

However, the flags were immediately removed by the
police patrolling the areas.

Meanwhile, as part of security arrangements to ensure
that the day passed off peacefully, authorities closed the
main road leading to the Bakshi Stadium - the venue of the
Independence day function here Saturday - where state Chief
Minister Omar Abdullah will hoist the flag.

Security has been beefed up in entire Srinagar and
other major towns of the valley. Sharp shooters have taken
vantage positions on high rise buildings to keep a hawk-eyed
vigil to foil any attempt by militants to disrupt the
celebrations.

Almost all separatist groups including moderate
faction of Hurriyat Conference have called for complete
shutdown Saturday. PTI AMS
DDC
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