Kashmir unrest: Life in valley trudges along as curfew enters 16th day

Srinagar, July 24 (ANI): Life continued to move at a sluggish pace as curfew and restrictions remained in force across several parts of Jammu and Kashmir for the 16th consecutive day, in view of continuous shut down call by separatists and prevailing law and order situation. Besides curfew in other districts in valley, the restrictions under Section 144 have been lifted in four districts of Baramulla, Bandipora, Budgam and Ganderbal. Barring BSNL post paid landline, mobile and broadband internet services, all private mobile telephone services continue to remain suspended. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who is on a two-day visit to review overall situation in Kashmir, has said all required measures will be taken to bring back normalcy in the valley. Singh yesterday appreciated the initiative of delegations for putting forth free and fair feedback and suggestions which will help in restoring normalcy in the region. The Home Minister also assured the delegations that necessary tangible action would be taken to address the concerns and difficulties. He will today meet different political leaders and several civilian groups in an attempt to restore peace and calm across the state. The violence started on July 9, a day after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Muzaffar Wani was killed in a gunfight with security forces. The civilian death toll since that day stands at around 46 with one policeman also dead. The police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in strength to maintain law and order. (ANI)