40 people injured by Indian forces’ firing on Muharram procession in Kashmir

At least 40 Kashmiris were injured when Indian forces opened fire on a Muharram procession paying tribute to Imam Hussain (RA) on Saturday.

According to the reports, a ban had been re-imposed by the Indian authorities on Thursday after clashes with mourners who wanted to stage traditional processions for Ashura.

An eye witness, told AFP that the procession started in the Bemina area on the outskirts of Srinagar and that Indian forces were present in heavy numbers.

He said the security forces fired pellets and tear gas shells to break up the gathering.

“The forces fired pellets at the procession that was mainly peaceful and included women”.

At least 40 people were injured by the pellets, the eye witness said adding that about 25 people were taken to a nearby clinic with pellet wounds, some with their faces and bodies covered in pellet marks, a doctor told AFP.