Life remains crippled in Baramulla for 4th day

Baramulla, Nov 25 (UNI) Life remained crippled for the fourth day today due to an ''undeclared curfew'' and spontaneous strike in this north Kashmir town and its adjoining areas, going to polls in the fourth-phase of election on December 7 along with 17 other assembly segments.

There was ''undeclared curfew'' in the old town -- the most trouble spot while life remained affected due to spontaneous strike in other parts.

Yesterday's meeting between the local citizens and top officials of divisional administration failed to break any ice as people demanded the arrest of security forces involved in the killing of two youths on Friday and release of all those arrested during ''pro-freedom'' and anti-poll demonstrations in the town.

The ''undeclared curfew'', imposed in the old town along with other areas from Friday evening continued today also. The residents of the old town were not being allowed to move out of their houses and directed to remain indoor owing to the restrictions.

However, so far the situation in the old town was by and large peaceful.

Shops and business establishments in other areas in the town remained closed since Friday afternoon. The strike also affected work in government offices and educational institutions.

However, some vehicles were seen plying on the highway and interior roads in the new town.

The authorities have already ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.

Situation in the town worsened on Friday when two youths were killed allegedly in security force firing in the evening after separatist demonstrations during the day.

UNI XC BAS YSS SB HS1431