The youth pelted stones on security personnel, who retaliated by firing tear gas shells. The clashes continued for some time

SRINAGAR: Two government school buildings were set on fire by unknown persons in south Kashmir’s Kulgam on Thursday night even as authorities disallowed Friday congregational prayers at Jamia Masjid in Srinagar for 12th consecutive week since the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5.

Sources said unknown persons set afire a middle school at Chawalgam. Earlier, another school building in Wadoo was also set aflame and police are investigating the incidents. Meanwhile, Friday congregation was barred at Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta area of downtown Srinagar drawing protests by youths, who took to roads in Rainawari area and clashed with the police and CRPF men.

The youth pelted stones on security personnel, who retaliated by firing tear gas shells. The clashes continued for some time. Similar clashes were also reported at Habba Kadal area of Srinagar. Shops, business establishments and petrol pumps remained closed for the 82nd consecutive day.