Jammu-Kashmir Police use teargas to disperse Shi’ite procession on Muharram

SRINAGAR - Jammu and Kashmir had to use teargas and batons charge on Saturday (December 26) to disperse a Shi’ite Muslim procession in Srinagar in Kashmir valley.

The incident took place when a group of Shiite Muslims were taking out the Muharram procession, marking the death of the Prophet Mohammed’s grandson.

Religious processions have been banned in Jammu And Kashmir State since militancy broke out in 1989.

“Like every year we were holding prayers when police authorities used tear gas and baton charged to prevent us from taking a procession. If India is a secular country, we have every right to follow our faith,” said Fida Hussain, a participant in the Muharram procession.

The “martyrdom” day of Imam Hussain is marked by prayers, processions and self-flagellation by the devouts to mourn his death. Imam Hussein was killed along with 72 of his relatives, friends and supporters. (ANI)