SRINAGAR, Oct 30: Police in Jammu and Kashmir have registered a case after several people sustained injuries in alleged clashes between supporters of the National Conference (NC) and the BJP in Gurez, Bandipora district, officials reported on Wednesday.
The altercation reportedly took place Tuesday evening when a rally led by Gurez MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan, also known as Gurezi, was attacked by a mob in the Gujran area of Tulail. Officials stated that several vehicles were damaged during the incident. A First Information Report (FIR) has been filed, and an investigation is underway.
Gurezi, who was touring his constituency to thank voters after his recent election victory, stated that upon returning to Gujran—his opponent, BJP leader Faqir Mohammad Khan’s village—he was stopped by police and informed that some people were blocking the path. “I was taken in a police vehicle, which was attacked with stones. They tried to murder me, but I escaped,” Gurezi recounted. He added that his personal and other vehicles were damaged, with several supporters injured. He condemned the violence, describing it as “complete hooliganism,” and expressed relief that a case has been filed.
In response, Aijaz Ahmad, son of BJP leader Faqir Mohammad Khan and a District Development Council (DDC) member, condemned the incident but claimed that NC supporters had provoked the clash by using inflammatory language and throwing stones at their houses, allegedly abusing women present. He held Nazir Khan and NC supporters responsible for instigating the violence. Ahmad urged intervention from the BJP leadership and called on the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to ensure security for the people of Gurez-Tulail, stating that residents feel increasingly insecure.
The incident has raised tensions in the area, with both parties calling for swift administrative action to restore peace and accountability.
