In occupied Kashmir, for the first time, administration disallowed the congregational gathering at the revered shrine of Hazratbal in Srinagar on the eve of Eid-e-Milad-un Nabi (SAWAS).

According to Kashmir Media Service, every year, thousands of people travel from far off districts of Kashmir to reach Hazratbal shrine for night-long prayers on the eve of 12th Rabi-ul-Awal.

They first participate in the night-long prayers for repentance and then have the glimpse of the holy relic of Prophet (SAWAS) after Fajr prayers.

However, this year, for the first time in the history, no gatherings were allowed at Hazratbal shrine.

The decision to ban the prayers at the Hazaratbal shrine has hurt the religious sentiments of people of Kashmir, who have emotional and spiritual attachment with the shrine as it houses the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Meanwhile, uneasy situation prevail in the Kashmir valley and Muslim areas of Jammu region, where life remains affected for the 98th day today, in protest against scrapping of Article 370 and 35 A and bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories on August 5.

Restrictions under Section 144 CrPC, prohibiting assemble of four or more persons, continue in the territory.

All gates of historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar remain closed for devotees even on Eid Milad, today.

The communication network, including prepaid phones and internet continue to remain suspended since August 5.

Curfew has been clamped in Kishtwar town and adjoining areas of Jammu region while prohibitory orders were imposed in nine other districts of Jammu region in the wake of verdict on Babri Masjid dispute at Ayodhya by the Indian Supreme Court.

In Jammu city, all shops and business establishments remain closed and commercial traffic was off the roads.

NNR/Zunera/Karrar