Srinagar, Jan. 30 : A large number of people took to streets in Srinagar to protest detentions of various separatist leaders since Jammu and Kashmir State Assembly elections were held here.

The slogan shouting protesters were led by a senior seperatist leader Shabir Ahmed.

"Till the time our leaders are not released from house arrest, we will continue to protest," said Ahmad, a Muslim League leader.

Local security personnel had to use tear gas after the protesters resorted to heavy stone pelting on them.

Authorities in the state had put in detention some separatist leaders, who were allegedly inciting people to boycott last year's State Assembly elections.

Protestors claimed that many of their leaders who participated in the peaceful demonstration were still behind the bars.

Kashmir''s main separatist alliance the All Parties Hurriyat (Freedom) Conference had given a public call for complete boycott of elections in the state. But the voters across the Jammu and Kashmir turned out in large numbers, defying the boycott call. (ANI)