General strike called by HC cripples life in JK

Srinagar, June 9: Life was paralysed due to one-day general strike called by breakaway Hurriyat Conference (HC) against the arrest of its chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

Shops and business establishments were closed and traffic was off the roads. However, it was a field day for three-wheelers who were charging extra fare from the passengers in the absence of other transport.

Work in government and semi government offices was also affected due to the strike.

The educational institutions wore a deserted look.

Mr Geelani was arrested when he was heading for Poonch to address a public meeting and later shifted to Jammu jail after a local court remanded him in judicial custody till June 29.

The arrest of Mr Geelani evoked widespread condemnation from different separatist organisations.

A report from Baramulla said that complete shut down was observed in this and other major towns in the north Kashmir where shops and other commerical establishments are closed and traffic off the roads.

However, the strike was by and large peaceful so far, it said adding Sopore, the stronghold of Mr Geelani also witnessed complete strike against his arrest.

Similar reports of a total shutdown were also received from south Kashmir, including Anantnag.

UNI