Srinagar, Aug. 12 -- Troops in India-administered Kashmir allowed some Muslims to walk to local mosques alone or in pairs to pray for the Eid al-Adha festival on Monday during an unprecedented security lockdown that still forced most people in the disputed region to stay indoors on the Islamic holy day.

Some protesters demonstrated against the Indian government's surprise revocation of Muslim-majority Kashmir's special status last week. All communications and the internet remained cut off for an eighth day. The streets were deserted, with authorities not allowing any large groups to gather to avoid anti-India protests.

"Our hearts are on fire," said Habibullah Bhat, 75, who said he came to offer prayers despite his failing health. "Indi...