Srinagar, June 17 -- PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday appealed to the authorities to allow Muharram processions in the valley and release youths booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) during protests over developments in Iran.

In a statement, the former chief minister said religious processions are an integral part of the region's cultural and spiritual heritage and must be facilitated in a manner that respects the sentiments and constitutional rights of the people.

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic New Year, will begin in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday and 'Ashura' processions will be held on the 10th day, June 26.

"Muharram is a time of reflection, sacrifice and remembrance. The values embodied by Imam Hussain continue to...