Restrictions in Indian-controlled Kashmir to stop protests over execution of Saudi Shiite cleric

Authorities Monday imposed curfew-like restrictions in several parts of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir to prevent protests and clashes over the execution of Shiite cleric Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr in Saudi Arabia.

"The restrictions have been imposed in areas falling under Zadibal and Rainawari police stations," Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Farooq Lone said. "The restrictions have been put in place to maintain law and order."

On Sunday Srinagar and adjoining areas witnessed protests and clashes over the execution of Nimr al-Nimr, a member of the Saudi Shiite community.

Police had to fire dozens of tear gas shells to chase protesters.

The demonstrators carrying photos of Nimr al-Nimr shouted slogans against Saudi Arabia government and described them "stooges of America."

At some places protesters threw stones and brickbats at police after they tried to stop them.

Reports said dozens of protesters were taken into preventive custody in Shia-populated areas.

The 56-year-old Nimr al-Nimr was among 47 others executed by Saudi government on Saturday on charges of sponsoring terrorism.

Nimr al-Nimr had been vocal against Saudi government over its alleged marginalization of a Shia community in the country.

The cleric's execution has evoked sharp criticism and fury from Shiite community across the world and kicked off a diplomatic row between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Following Nimr al-Nimr's execution, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that the Saudi Arabia would face "divine revenge" for the execution.

Khamenei called Nimr al-Nimr a "martyr" who had acted peacefully.

Protesters in Tehran stormed the Saudi embassy and torched the part of building.

Saudi Arabia announced on Sunday a decision to break off diplomatic ties with Iran after its embassy in Tehran was attacked and asked Iranian diplomats to leave the country. Endit