Updated on Monday, November 24, 2008, 00:00 IST

Srinagar, Nov 24: People's Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday escaped unhurt when anti-election protesters stoned her motorcade while she was returning after filing nomination papers, in Pulwama town here.

Mehbooba will be contesting from Wacchi constituency in Shopian district.

Her motorcade was stoned while she was returning to participate in an election rally after filing papers before the returning officer at the district headquarters, official sources said.

A few stones hit the vehicle carrying the PDP president, but she escaped unhurt. Security forces, escorting her, moved into the area and chased the protesters away by resorting to baton charge and firing tear gas shells.

Though authorities said none was injured in lathicharge, locals alleged that several persons were wounded.

Today was the last date for filing of nominations in Wacchi constituency which, along with 10 other constituencies of Pulwama, Shopian and Kathua districts, is going to polls in the fifth phase of elections on December 13.

This is the second time within three days that Mehbooba had to face the ire of the anti-election protesters. On Saturday, she had a narrow escape when her motorcade was attacked by protesters in Baramulla town.

One vehicle was set ablaze, while windscreens of two others of her motorcade were smashed.

Bureau Report