Strike, coupled with undeclared curfew cripples life in Kashmir

Srinagar, Oct 27 (UNI) General strike called by the Coordination Committee (CC), to protest against the presence of Indian troops, in the Kashmir valley, coupled with undeclared curfew crippled normal life in the valley today.

Shops and business establishments in the summer capital and other major towns in the valley remained closed and traffic was also off the road.

Streets wore a deserted look with only Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and state police personnel, holding automatic weapons, lathis and shields in their hands deployed in strength.

Bullet proof bunker vehicles, fitted with tear smoke shells could also be seen parked at trouble spots at Maisuma, Natipora, Dalgate and Sonawar.

State and central government offices, educational institutions, banks and other commercial establishments also remained closed.

CRPF and police personnel deployed in the city were asking people to remain because of curfew restrictions.

The Police Control Room (PCR), however, said no curfew has been imposed in any part of the valley.

Reports of total shut down were also received from other parts of the valley.

The CC, an alliance of both the factions of the Hurriyat Conference (HC), traders, Kashmir Bar Association and other separatist organisations had appealed to people to observe a strike today and also form human chain to protest against the presence of Indian troops in the valley.

On this day first Indian soldier landed at Srinagar airport in 1947 when Pakistani raiders entered the state through Uri sector, which was opened for trade on October 21.

UNI BAS SB DS1135