Demolition Drive Sparks Clashes and Stone-Throwing in J&K, Injures 6 Cops

Two political parties have expressed their condemnation of the demolition of a mosque allegedly built on state land at Nagri village in the district. The National Conference and the J&K Apni Party have both condemned the demolition and raised concerns about possible polarization.

During the demolition, residents of the area, largely Gujjar-Bakarwal nomads, resisted the action by clashing with the police and throwing stones at them. This led to the deployment of hundreds of police and paramilitary personnel in the area.

While the Gujjar-Bakarwals have accused the district administration of selectively targeting their places of worship, an official stated that the demolition was part of a routine drive. Notices had been served twice earlier, but the illegal construction continued, prompting the demolition.

The National Conference has voiced concerns that the demolition drive is aimed at polarization ahead of the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. They have urged the administration against targeting any religious, caste, or community group and have requested the Lieutenant Governor to initiate a thorough investigation into the incident.

The President of J&K Apni Party, Syed Altaf Bukhari, also warned that the incident threatens the peaceful environment in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during the Amarnath pilgrimage. He urged the administration to desist from such acts against any religion, caste, or creed and called for maintaining calm.