Violence erupts in Kashmir, BJP office attacked

Violence broke out at several places in Kashmir on Sunday as mobs attacked police posts, security personnel and BJP office in Kulgam to protest the death of Hizbul Mujhaideen poster boy Burhan Wani in an encounter.

11 people including three policemen were injured during the clashes. Groups of youths pelted stones at police posts and police stations at Bandipora, Qazigund and Larnoo in Anantnag district, said a police official.

Violent protests were also held in Mir Bazaar and Damhaal Hanjipora in Kulgam district and Warpora in Sopore township of Baramulla district.

The police picket guarding minority community in Vessu area of south Kashmir was also attacked, the official said.  

He said a mob also attacked BJP office in Nilo-Bugam area of Kulgam district and damaged the building. 

Stone pelting incidents were also reported from Sheeri, Kreeri, Delina, Pattan and Palhalan areas of north Kashmir's Baramulla district, the official said, adding Barsoo and Shariefabad in Awantipora area of south Kashmir also saw violent protests. 

He said "so far 11 persons including three policemen were injured during the ongoing clashes. 

Minor protests were also reported from several parts of the city, he added.

Curfew-like restrictions were imposed in parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar city, and Amarnath yatra was suspended as authorities had apprehended protests in the Valley, where tension prevailed following the killing of Wani on Saturday.

Mobile internet across Kashmir was suspended while mobile telephony services have also been restricted in south Kashmir.

Top separatist leaders who had called for a strike were put under house arrest as a precautionary measure.