Article 370 Scrapped: Internet services partially restored in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Eid

Srinagar : After five days of the security lockdown in Jammu and Kashmir, the authorities have partially restored the internet services to facilitate Friday prayers.

However, thousands of security personnel remain positioned across the Kashmir Valley to ensure peace following the centre's decision to end special status and turn Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories.

The prayers were allowed in the small mosques, however, Jama Masjid's gate remained closed indicating that prayers will not be allowed for the time being.

It has been learned that the security in the valley will be reduced if the prayers go well without any trouble.

"People are allowed to pray within their neighbourhood, there is no restriction on that," state police chief Dilbag Singh told news agency AFP. "But they should not venture out of their local area," he said.

The decision to ease restrictions was taken after National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who visited Srinagar today, directed authorities to ensure that no Kashmiris were harassed, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. 

Around 400 political leaders, including former Chief Ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, remain in custody as the government tries to avoid protests or rallies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address on Thursday evening, said that the government will ensure that no Kashmiris will be troubled during Eid-ul-Adha celebrations on Monday.

"The government is providing every possible help to our friends who live outside Jammu and Kashmir and want to go back for Eid," PM Modi said.

PM Modi also acknowledged the problems faced by the people amid the lockdown.

"The freedom from Article 370 is a reality. But another reality is that people have faced problems due to the precautionary measures (taken by the government). They are facing that too," he added.