Heavy deployment of forces in curfew-hit Jammu

Jammu, Jul 4 (UNI) The city of temples has virtually turned into a cantonment with heavy deployment of security forces to stem protests against state government's decision of revoking diversion of 40 acres forest land in favour of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board.

No relaxation in the curfew was given on the fourth consecutive day today as people were facing acute shortage of essential commodities. ''There is no chance of relaxation considering the current situation in Jammu,'' police said.

The power failure due to fire in the main grid station on previous night multiplied the problems of the common masses.

Forced by the daily needs and healthcare emergencies, people were seen defying curfew orders and moving on personal vehicles.

Life remained completely paralysed in the city with all the educational institutions, banks and other government and private offices closed. Public transport was also off the road and business was completely ceased due to the curfew and saffron-sponsored bandh in the city.

Four companies of Rapid Action Force (RAF) have also been called in from New Delhi to help maintain law and order in the city. They conducted flag march on the roads.

Besides, thousands of Jammu and Kashmir police personnel and troops of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have been deployed in the city to ensure implementation of curfew. Police authorities, however, did not disclose the number of troops deployed within the city considering it as ''security issue''.

UNI VJ JT RAI1139