Police have registered a case after several people were reportedly injured in clashes between supporters of the National Conference (NC) and the BJP in the Gurez area of Bandipora district, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The incident occurred Tuesday evening when a rally led by Gurez MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan, popularly known as Gurezi, was attacked by a mob in Gujran area of Tulail, North Kashmir. The officials stated that multiple vehicles were damaged in the clashes.
An FIR has been registered, and investigations are underway, according to police sources. The altercation reportedly unfolded as Gurezi was touring his constituency to thank voters following his recent win in the JK assembly elections. Upon his arrival in Gujran — the hometown of BJP opponent Faqir Mohammad Khan — police reportedly advised Gurezi to proceed cautiously, noting that a gathering was blocking the roadway.
Gurezi recounted that he was transported in a police vehicle for safety, but the vehicle was subsequently attacked with stones. “They attempted to kill me, but I managed to escape. My personal vehicle and several others were damaged, and multiple people in our group sustained injuries,” Gurezi alleged, calling the incident “complete hooliganism.” He expressed hope that authorities would act promptly to identify those responsible.
In response, BJP leader Faqir Mohammad Khan’s son, Aijaz Ahmad, condemned the incident but claimed NC supporters instigated the confrontation. “The NC workers provoked BJP supporters by using inflammatory language near their homes and businesses. They threw stones at our houses and insulted women, which led to the clashes,” he stated, holding Gurezi and his supporters responsible. Ahmad, a District Development Council (DDC) member, urged intervention from the BJP high command and Lt Governor’s administration to ensure security for Gurez-Tulail residents, noting that people in the area felt increasingly insecure.
The police investigation aims to clarify the events and take appropriate action as the situation remains tense in the region.