NC-PDP rivalry: Bridge closed for public movement

Srinagar, March 14, CNS: Rivalry between the supporters of National Conference and People’s Democratic Party have left the common people flummoxed in Saida Kadal area of Srinagar city. The supporters of one political party after closing what is known as Janata Bridge tried to set it on fire during the intervening night of Friday and Saturday. However, scores of people rushed to spot and doused the fire and forced the miscreants to retreat from the spot.

    “During Assembly election campaign last year, the supporters of NC and PDP from two localities fought pitched battles in the area on daily basis. The supporters of one political party in a bid to restrict the movement of the supporters of another party closed the Janata Bridge and even dug up a major portion of road. Since November last year the Janata Bridge is closed,” a local of Sultan Mohalla Saidakadal told CNS adding that common people who are not interested in politics suffer heavily due to blockade.

    The locals said that they approached Tehsildar Hazratbal and sought his intervention who directed police station Rainawari to open up the bridge for public movement. “Police did not take the matter seriously and the bridge continues to the closed for the public movement. We are surprised how anyone can close bridge that has been dedicated by the government for the people,” a resident Ali Muhammad said.

   Reports said that the miscreants tried to set the same bridge on fire. On Saturday morning, the supporters of both political parties attacked one another with stones and sticks. Police rushed to spot and dispersed the furious supporters of these political parties.

   When contacted Station House Officer, Rainawari informed that they have thrown the bridge open for public movement. “Every time the rival groups clash with each other and create problems for peace loving people. We are on the spot and have cleared bridge from all the bottlenecks,” he said. (CNS)