Shutdown cripples life in Kashmir for 7th day

Srinagar, Jun 29: Curfew like situation prevailed in most parts of the summer capital and other major towns as complete shut down was observed for the seventh day today due to spontaneous strikes in protests against the transfer of forest land to the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) by the government.

''Please go back as we have orders not to allow anyone from this bridge,'' a security force official near Budshah bridge told people, who wanted to cross over to Budshah chowk.

The official said we have been told not to allow any civilian from this bridge.

A resident from Nowgam said announcements were made by the police that curfew has been imposed in the area.

They alleged that a bakery shop owner was beaten by the security personnel when he opened his shop this morning. However, officials said no curfew has been imposed in any part of the Valley.

Similar situation prevailed in other areas of the city where people were being advised to remain indoors by the security forces.

A large number of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and state police personnel have been deployed at Maisuma, being considered as most troubled spot.

Not a single civilian was seen in the area and it looks as if the curfew has been imposed.

Traffic was off the roads. However, shops and other business establishments remained closed because of Sunday today.

The authorities have already declared holiday in all educational institutions, while all examinations of Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education and Kashmir University have also been postponed.

A report from Anantnag said life remained crippled in the entire south Kashmir due to strikes. It said undeclared curfew has been imposed in Pulwama, which witnessed massive violent demonstrations during the past four days. People are being asked to remain indoors, they said. The report said a total shut down town was also observed in Pahalgam, Shopian, Awantipora, Tral, Darsar and other major areas of south Kashmir.

Baramulla report also said complete strike was observed in the town with deserted street. However, security forces remained deployed in strength.

Total strike was also observed in Sopore, Handwara, Kupwara, Pattan and other major towns in north Kashmir.

UNI