Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, July 25: The indefinite curfew in parts of Budgam district of central Kashmir imposed on Tuesday evening that continued today has restored calm in the area after worst sectarian clashes during which over 25 houses were set ablaze and property worth crores of rupees was destroyed.
Police, CRPF and Army continued to be deployed in the affected areas to maintain peace and calm in the sensitive area of the district. The security forces are making regular announcements through public address systems asking people not to come out from their respective homes as the shoot and sight orders have been given against the curfew violators.
There are no reports of fresh clashes in the curfew-bound areas, but the tension continues to prevail. Most of the roads leading to the central Kashmir district Budgam witnessed a deserted look and the forces personnel deployed in every nook and corner of the villages.
All the schools, colleges, commercial establishments, Government offices and semi government offices remain closed in the curfew bound areas. No one was allowed to enter the curfew bound areas as a precautionary measure.
Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Khurshid Ahmad Shah said that security situation in the district is under control and police, CRPF and Army is maintained a tight vital to maintain calm.
The Deputy Commissioner said that tight security restrictions in been maintained in 16 villages of the district and out of these villages four are very sensitive, which witnessed repeated clashes.
Khursheed said that the high-level team visited areas of Sahahpora, Solipora, Gandoosa, Paimus, Alipora and Khomani Chowk. “Earlier, we also held a meeting with Army, police, and members of civil society besides the local prominent and respected persons of the society.”
“We have constituted a committee which would assess the loss of property damaged during the sectarian clashes. On interim bases we have given relief to various families who faced extensive losses due to the clashes. On the assessment would be completed, relief would be provided to all the families,” the DC said.
A peace march was held at Magam township of Budgam district under the supervision of MLA Beerwah Dr Mohammad Shari Wani.
Around 1000 people of both the communities of Beerwah constituency and its adjoining areas today assembled at Magam Township and held a peace march. They were raising slogans of maintaining brotherhood and mutual co-operation among both communities.