Angry residents in Srinagar have reportedly clashed with police after the historic Dastgeer Sahib shrine suffered massive damages in a fire early Monday.
The Kasmirglobal website said that stone pelting youth clashed with forces in parts of the old city, following which authorities deployed hundreds of force personnel.
The 200-year-old shrine was constructed of timber: Screengrab from CNN IBN
NDTV reported that at least 20 people, many of them policemen, were injured in the clashes. It added that six fire tenders and one ambulance were also damaged by angry mobs who blamed fire service officials for reaching late.
Scores of locals gathered at the shrine weeping and wailing while they watched the blaze.
Reverence for the 11th century saint in Kashmir cuts across religious barriers. While Muslims call the saint Ghaus-e-Azam, the Hindus revere the saint as Kahnoow.
Officials say the fire started from the roof top of the shrine at 6:30am soon after people completed morning prayers. They are still trying to determine the cause. The two century-old shrine was an architectural marvel constructed mostly of timber with ornate Khantamband and woodwork.
The shrine also had many antique chandeliers which adorned the centre of the big hall, where people visiting the shrine would pray.
