Thousands of Muslims seek refuge in mosques fearing mob attacks in occupied Kashmir

Local people also provide food, accommodation and cash to stranded Kashmiris


APP February 18, 2019
Local people also provide food, accommodation and cash to stranded Kashmiris. PHOTO: AFP/FILE

ISLAMABAD: At least 6,000 Kashmiri Muslims have taken refuge in several mosques of Indian occupied Jammu district fearing attacks by Hindu mobs in the wake of suicide attack in Pulwama district in which 44 paramilitary forces were killed.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Abdul Majid, a member of Makkah Masjid Committee, Bathindi, said: "Around 2,500 to 3,000 people are putting up here. These include stranded Kashmir-bound passengers as well as people living in sensitive zones of Jammu district."

"We reached Jammu on Sunday evening, fearing attacks in other areas, we took refuge in Makkah Masjid, Bathindi," said Aijaz Ahmed Mir, a resident of Baramulla who had gone to Chandigarh with his wife for medical treatment.

Another resident of occupied Kashmir, Zahid Salam Wani, said: "I am from Budgam district and pursue my studies in Kolkata. Due to the prevailing situation, I came to Jammu by train and plan to go to Srinagar tomorrow. I will be staying here at Bathindi".

Kashmiri Muslims evicted, threatened after Pulwama attack

The committee members Muhammad Ashraf, Jamaat Ali and Majid Ahmed Tak asked people from all communities to come to Bathindi if they feel unsafe elsewhere.

Meanwhile, in Khatika Talab's Jamia Masjid around 1,000-1,500 people have taken refuge.

According to Salman Salaria, a local resident, "We have made all arrangements here, from food to bedding."

The locals provided gas cylinders, ration as well as cash. Besides, the local hoteliers provided utensils to cook food.

In Gujjar Nagar, around 1,000-1,500 people have taken refuge.

Inside India, after various reports of Kashmiris including students, traders and employees were threatened to leave the place.

A 42-year-old cardiologist from Srinagar, who has spent the last 22 years working in Kolkata, has been asked by a group of people to leave the city.

COMMENTS (1)

Uzair | 5 years ago | Reply This is an horror act of indian government which will create another cause to normal man to become a mujahid!!
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