Anantnag by-polls: Internet services suspended in Kashmir valley till April 12

New Delhi [India], Apr. 9 (ANI): In the wake of the prevailing turbulent situation in the Kashmir valley, internet services have been suspended till the Anantnag by-polls are conducted, which is scheduled to be held April 12. Apart from this, all Kashmir University exams scheduled to be held up-to the Anatanag by-polls have been postponed. New dates for the same will be notified separately. Meanwhile, with another civilian succumbing to injuries, the death toll in the brutal Budgam clashes has gone up to seven. The civilians were killed during clashes with security forces in various areas of central Kashmir's Budgam district. The Srinagar Parliamentary constituency witnessed lowest voter turnout for the by-polls in the wake of the clashes. Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed deep anguish over the loss of lives during today's polling and said that peaceful means and non violence are the only way ahead for getting the state out of the present difficulties. Sporadic violent clashes occurred at around four dozen places in various areas in Srinagar and Budgam districts. Srinagar Parliamentary constituency comprises of 15 assembly segments in three central Kashmir districts of Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal. Meanwhile, the Hurriyat has called for a shutdown in the Valley in the wake of the death of civilians. Srinagar reported a poor 6.5 percent voter turnout today during the by-polls for Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency. Earlier in 2014 polls, voter turnout was 26 percent, slightly better than 25.55 percent recorded in 2009 elections. Nine candidates were in fray for the Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency where more than 1,500 polling stations were set up for nearly 12.61 lakh voters. Internet services were shut down ahead of the polling. (ANI)