Clashes Mar First-Ever International Marathon In Kashmir; 12 Arrested

13 September, Srinagar

In Jammu and Kashmir, Police have arrested a dozen miscreants for alleged molestation and eve-teasing during a sporting event that had attracted thousands of participants including women. The Big Kashmir Marathon, attended by runners from the country and abroad, was organized for the first time in Kashmir to raise awareness about traffic rules, rights and dignity of senior citizens, conservation and preservation of water bodies.

The marathon started at Kashmir University and returned back to venue from the SKICC point on Boulevard road along the Dal lake. However, some miscreants attempted to disrupt the event that led to clashes and impacted the smooth conclusion.

A police spokesman said that the race was flagged off as scheduled but some miscreants within the crowd started passing lewd and obscene comments at girl students. Police said FIRs have been registered at Nigeen police station and 12 miscreants involved in molestation and eve-teasing have been arrested so far.

State Minister Sukhnanadan Kumar flagged off the first ever Big Kashmir Marathon, sponsored by a local FM radio station and a few government departments.

Around 30 thousand runners had registered for the marathon. As many as 15 international athletes including those from Kenya and Ethiopia participated in the event.

PDP President and MP Mehbooba Mufti has condemned the alleged molestation incident saying such a rowdy behavior was unacceptable in a civilized society. She asked the civil society to rise against such unruly behaviour.