Kashmir: Normal life continues to be hit for 82nd day

Srinagar: Normal life continued to remain affected in the Kashmir Valley as the historic Jamia Masjid in the Nowhatta area of the city here remained closed for congregational prayers for the 12th consecutive on Friday, officials said.

The gates of the Jamia Masjid were shut and security forces' personnel were deployed in strength in the area, they said. Friday prayers have not been allowed at any of the major mosques or shrines, in the Valley for the past more than two months now. Authorities have been imposing restrictions in vulnerable areas every Friday in view of apprehensions that vested interests might exploit the huge Friday prayer gatherings at big mosques.