Kashmir violence: Curfew in force as separatists plan protests

SRINAGAR - Curfew was in force in Kashmir Valley on Tuesday as a precautionary measure following the separatists’ protest plan.

The hardline faction of Hurriyat Conference headed by Syed Ali Shah Geelani has given a call for a week-long programme of protests and asked people to offer prayers on roads in their respective areas.

Police and paramilitary forces are deployed to enforce curfew in the valley.

Restrictions of movements continued in Baramullah, Sopore, Anantnag and Pulwama regions since there were reports of stone pelting protests on Sunday.

Shops and business establishments, educational institutions and private offices remained closed and public transport was off the roads.

Locals say due to the curfew many have not been able to go to their offices and attend allied chores, as the situation remains to be tense in the valley.

“The strike is getting very strict here. Every time the Hurriyat announces a calendar (schedule of protests), the strikes are becoming very dangerous. And the government employees have to face a lot of problems. I was on my way to office but the police personnel did not allow me and don’t allow us to go anywhere. So we face a lot of problems and reach the office with great difficulty,” said Shabir Ahmed.

Earlier, curfew was imposed on July 31 in ten districts of the valley, including Srinagar, following violent protests and clashes between the stone pelting locals and the security personnel in which at least 40 people reportedly lost their lives.

A curfew was initially imposed on June 30 in parts of northern and southern Kashmir to stop demonstrations over a couple of protesters who died in police firing.

It was lifted some days later, but was again imposed as fresh violence erupted.

The valley is witnessing a surge of violence that has led the authorities to impose frequent curfew restrictions in several parts of Kashmir. (ANI)