Azad asks separatists to close down shops; desist from strikes

Srinagar, July 20 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today warned the separatist leaders and groups to immediately ''close down their shops'' and desist from giving frequent strike calls, mostly on Fridays.

Replying to an adjournment motion moved by the main opposition National Conference (NC) on the issue of human rights violations in the state Assembly here, Mr Azad said some separatist leaders give frequent strike calls, mostly on Fridays, only to make their presence felt.

''These leaders (separatists) should immediately close down their shops. They should desist from giving strike calls,'' he added.

The Chief Minister also asserted that strict action would be taken against government employees found absent on Friday or other days when a general strike is called by any group or leader.

''This trend has to stop. We will not tolerate it any more. The employees need to work with more honesty,'' he added.

The Chief Minister said there have been strike days of three and half years in Kashmir during the past 18 years of turmoil.

UNI