Shutdown cripples life in Kashmir Valley on Day 105
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], Oct.21 (ANI): Normal life remained crippled for 105th day in the Kashmir Valley amid a shutdown call given by separatists.
ANI
Oct 21, 2016 22:15 IST
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], Oct.21 (ANI): Normal life remained crippled for 105th day in the Kashmir Valley amid a shutdown call given by separatists. At least 80 civilians have been killed and thousands wounded in over three months of clashes between protesters and security forces, sparked by the killing of a field commander of separatist militant group Hizbul Mujahideen Burhan Wani by security forces on July 8. Wani was idolized by some youth and his killing provoked an outpouring of anger across the state. The separatists, who accuse the Indian security forces of using excessive force, have repeatedly extended their shutdown call. The current shutdown programme is scheduled to last till October 27. Srinagar wore a deserted look as businesses remained shut and people stayed indoors. Though curfew was lifted in Kashmir last week, security and police personnel dressed in riot gear patrolled the deserted roads of Srinagar to prevent any untoward incidents. Small traders, street vendors and transporters, who survive on their daily incomes, have been hit the hardest. Reportedly, the traders are suffering losses of Rs.1.35 billion every day. Security has also been stepped up amid repeated militant attacks on several Indian army bases and exchanges of fire across the border between Indian and Pakistani soldiers. India has long accused Pakistan of backing militant groups operating in disputed Kashmir, as well as of sending fighters to other parts of the country to carry out acts of violence. However, Pakistan denies the allegations. (ANI)
Get the App
