AMN
A joint state-wide strike call by both factions of Hurriyat Conference, JKLF and Democratic Freedom Party has badly affected normal life across Kashmir. The shut-down call was given to protest against spate of mysterious killings of civilians, political activists and former militants in North Kashmir’s Sopore town during past over three weeks. The impact of shutdown call is intense in Sopore and Baramulla areas of north Kashmir. Normal life in Sopore town remained affected on third consecutive day since the latest killing in the town on Monday.
Shops, business establishments, educational institutions and courts are closed in capital Srinagar. The public transport remained generally affected while private vehicles are plying sparsely. However, tourist vehicles are plying normally within and outside city. Chemist shops and healthcare institutions are open. The shut-down in other districts has mixed response.
Reports said Bhaderwah town in Chenab Valley is also observing shutdown on separatists’ call. Deputy Inspector General of Police North Kashmir Garib Dass yesterday said two militants belonging to a breakaway faction ‘Lashkar e Islam’ of the Hizbul Mujahideen outfit, are responsible for the recent reprisal killings of four persons in Sopore town, two civilians associated with mobile business sector besides four police personnel in North Kashmir during around past month. The police have announced cash reward of Rs 10 lakh each for anyone helping to track down the suspected killers. Meanwhile, the authorities continued house detention of senior separatist leaders Syed Ali Geelani, Ashraf Seharai, Shabir Shah and Nayeem Khan.