Spontaneous strike cripples life in Kashmir

Srinagar, Jan 5: A spontaneous strike today, called by some religious leaders, in protest against the execution of ousted Iraqi President Saddam Hussein crippled normal life in the Kashmir valley.

Shops and business establishment were closed and traffic was off the road.

Work in the government offices, banks and other commercial establishments was affected due to the strike. However, educational institutions were already closed due to winter holidays.

The strike was called today after a massive demonstration in different parts of the valley, particuarly in the city yesterday in which 25 persons, including an Assistant Commandant of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), were injured.

A report from Baramulla said complete shut down was observed in most parts of North Kashmir. The streets wore a deserted look as shops and business establishments were closed and traffic was off the road. Majority of the government and semi government offices also remained closed.

The strike was also observed in most towns in south Kashmir districts of Anantnag and Pulwama.

UNI