Curfew, separatist shutdown cripple life in Kashmir

SRINAGAR - After a day’s normalcy, separatists called for another shutdown in Kashmir Valley Wednesday while authorities imposed curfew in most areas of this summer capital and restrictions in some towns.

“Curfew has been imposed in nine areas of Srinagar while restrictions will remain in place in south Kashmir’s Anantnag and central Kashmir’s Badgam towns,” a police officer said here.

Restrictions have also been imposed in areas falling under Shergarhi and Soura police station areas of Srinagar.

The hardline faction of the separatist Hurriyat group headed by Syed Ali Geelani announced a 10-day-long protest schedule Tuesday evening as part of the group’s Quit Kashmir campaign.

The group called for a shutdown Wednesday and Thursday, asking people to resume normal activities Friday.

The valley has been in the throes of a violent unrest since June 11 in which 63 civilians have lost their lives so far.

After the bustle Tuesday that saw most traffic arteries in the summer capital jammed for several hours, roads in the city were again deserted Wednesday hardly any movement, except that of security forces.

Shops, other businesses, educational institutions, banks, post offices remained closed and transport remained affected in most areas.