Chinab valley observes bandh over Kashmir unrest

Jammu, Aug 5: A partial to complete bandh was witnessed in three districts of Kishtwar, Doda and Ramban in Chenab Valley today to express solidarity with protesters killed in clashes with security forces in Kashmir Valley.

The bandh was observed in Kishtwar and Doda including Bhaderwah, Banihal and Thathri towns, police officials said. Protests were also held last evening in some towns where anti-India slogans were raised over killing of youth during clashes with security forces in Kashmir Valley.

In Doda, the shutdown call was given by Markazi Seerat Committee Doda and Masjid Committee Thathri. Shops and other business establishments of the majority community remained closed at Doda and Thathri.

However, government offices remained open and traffic plied on the roads normally. At Doda and Kishtwar, protest rallies were held yesterday with the agitators demanding that the state and Central hold talks with "stakeholders" without any delay.

"Kashmir is not a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. Unless Kashmiri people are taken on board, there is no fun of holding any talks," said senior National Conference leader and former home minister Khalid Najeeb Suharawardy.

"If government is really serious about resolving Kashmir issue then they should immediately start talks involving Huriyat Conference," said Suharawardy.

Adequate columns of Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in towns of Chenab valley.

PTI