The Hindu : Front Page : Srinagar protest against sex scandal turns violent

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Saturday, May 06, 2006

Front Page

Front Page

Srinagar protest against sex scandal turns violent

Shuja'at Bukhari

Police fire in the air as mob attempts to set ablaze the house of the kingpin

PROTESTERS' IRE: Angry demonstrators on Friday tried to demolish the house of Sabeena, alleged to be the mastermind in a sex scandal that has rocked Srinagar. PHOTO: NISSAR AHMAD

SRINAGAR: Srinagar on Friday saw a violent protest by thousands of people demanding stern action against those allegedly involved in a sex scandal. The police fired in the air as the protesters attempted to set ablaze the house of the alleged kingpin, Sabeena, in the Habbakadal locality. Her house was ransacked and pulled down.

"Eleven policemen and three civilians were injured in the clashes," said Munir Khan, Senior Superintendent of Police.

In response to a strike call given by the Traders Federation and the Dukhtaran-e-Millat and supported by others, people came out in large numbers protesting against the scandal, in which top politicians, police offi- cers and businessmen were allegedly involved.

As the mob tried to set fire to Sabeena's house, the police resorted to a lathicharge. As it had little effect, the police fired in the air. This led to clashes. "We had to intervene as the entire locality would have been gutted," said Mr. Khan.

Massive demonstrations

Massive demonstrations were held in other parts of the city as well.

At many places the protests, organised by the Muslim League and the Democratic Liberation Party, ended peacefully. The protesters said that even after about two months since the scandal came to light, the police had not taken any action against the persons named by two girls who alleged that they were lured into the racket by Sabeena and some surrendered militants.

Shops closed in Valley

Reports of peaceful demonstrations were also received from five other districts in the Kashmir Valley, officials said. Almost all shops and business establishments remained closed in Srinagar and other parts of the Valley.

The strike hit work in government offices, while educational institutions, banks, courts and other establishments remained closed.

Case handed over to CBI Meanwhile, the case has been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation on a Home Ministry order. A local court on Friday extended police remand for Sabeena till May 13.

Mr. Khan said four others were also arrested. A girl who was reportedly blackmailed has been placed under protective custody.

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