Restrictions, shutdown cripple Kashmir

SRINAGAR - Life was paralysed across Kashmir Saturday as security was heightened in view of a protest shutdown called by hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani against alleged human rights violations.

Authorities moved in heavy police and paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) reinforcements in the old city and uptown areas of this Jammu and Kashmir summer capital early morning to enforce strict restrictions.

The restrictions were imposed in areas falling under five police stations of old city and Maisuma localities in view of the strike called by Geelani, who heads the hardline separatist Hurriyat Conference.

Security forces sealed roads by erecting barricades and using razor-fitted wire coils, disallowing any pedestrian and vehicular movement.

Shops, businesses, government offices and banks in the city were shut but some private vehicles were seen plying in the civil line areas. Security, however, is tight in the uptown areas as well.

Reports from other towns said the strike threw life out of gear with authorities making strict security arrangements to maintain law and order.

The situation in Kashmir is by and large peaceful and adequate security arrangements have been made to maintain law and order, a senior police officer said.