JK: Life crippled due to spontaneous strike

Srinagar, Jul 1: Curfew like situation prevailed in the summer capital of the state and other major towns in the Kashmir valley as complete shut down was observed for the eighth day today due to spontaneous strike in protest against the transfer of forest land to Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) by the government.

Rejecting the fresh government-SASB understanding on the land issue, the Action Committee Against Land Transfer (ACLT), heading the agitation said it will continue protests till the order is revoked by the state Cabinet.

Almost all streets wore a deserted look with all shops and business establishments remained closed and traffic off the roads for the seventh day today. However, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and state police personnel, wearing bullet proof jackets and holding automatic weapons, besides lathis in their hands, have been deployed in strength on both sides of the roads.

Government offices, banks, public undertaking offices and other commercial establishments wore a deserted look as employees stayed away.

Petrol pumps, government ration depots and other essential services were also remained closed.

All examinations of Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education and Kashmir University have also been postponed while interviews scheduled were postponed.

A report from Anantnag said life remained crippled in the entire south Kashmir due to strike.

According to report from Baramulla, complete strike was observed in the town with deserted streets. 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