‘6000 people take refuge in Jammu mosques’

At least 6000 people have taken refuge in several “safe” areas of Jammu district in the wake of fear of mob violence.

Abdul Majid, a member of Makah Masjid committee Bathindi, said, “Around 2500 to 3000 people are putting up here. These include stranded Kashmir-bound passengers as well as people living in sensitive zones of Jammu district”.

   

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

Another resident of 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 tonight”.

A report said that late on Saturday night, around 80 SRTC buses, carrying around 1600 people, left for the Valley. They were provided police protection and had crossed Ramban at around 2 pm.

The Makkah Masjid committee has also arranged for transport, which is scheduled to leave towards the Valley on Sunday night.

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 Jamia Masjid, KhatikaTalab, around 1000-1500 people have taken refuge.

Salman Salaria, a local resident, said, “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 1000-1500 people have taken refuge.

On Sunday, the locals prepared food at the Gujjar Nagar Chowk and distributed it among the people. Besides, a local corporator also distributed groceries and vegetables.

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