General strike cripples life in Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 23 (UNI) Life remained paralysed in the Kashmir valley for the second day today due to general strike call given by the Coordination Committee (CC), spearheading the ongoing agitation.

The CC, an alliance of both the factions of the Hurriyat Conference (HC), Kashmir Bar Association (KBA), separatist organisations and other social and religious organisation, has called for three-day strike from today, demanding opening of Jehlum valley and other roads with Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Release of all detenues, withdrawal of troops and all special powers to security forces were also part of their demands.

The CC has also given ''Lal Chowk'' chalo call on Monday.

Shops and business establishments remained closed and traffic was off the roads here.

Work in government offices, banks and business establishments was also affected as employees stayed away.

The government run ration depots also remained closed and educational institutions wore a deserted look.

A report from Baramulla said life remained paralysed due to total strike with all shops and business establishments closed and traffic was off the roads. Government offices and other financial institutions also remained closed.

Similar reports were also received from Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Badgam, Charar-e-Sharief, Pattan, Ganderbal and Kangan.

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