A conflict over the proposed conversion of a section of a graveyard into an Eidgah in Aloosa village, located in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, escalated into a violent confrontation, leaving at least five people injured.
Tensions brewed after a faction of villagers erected a pulpit in an effort to designate a portion of the graveyard for Eid prayers, Greater Kashmir reported.
Opposing this initiative, another group lodged a formal complaint with Tehsildar Aloosa, seeking intervention.
Following the complaint, the Tehsildar advised the dissenting group to approach the local police. Despite these steps, the situation took a volatile turn on Friday night when an attempt was made to repaint the pulpit.
The action provoked members of the opposing faction, who sought police intervention. However, as both parties converged at the site, a violent clash broke out involving stones and sticks, resulting in injuries.
Among the injured were Mohammad Yousuf Wani and Maqsood Ahmad, who sustained severe wounds to their head and ear.
Aloosa’s police confirmed the incident, stating that five individuals were injured. Law enforcement has since registered an FIR and arrested two individuals allegedly involved in the altercation.
The graveyard dispute remains unresolved, with local authorities urging both sides to maintain peace as investigations continue.