| On separatists' call strike observed in Valley, Kishtwar | | | Early Times Report
SRINAGAR/KISHTWAR, Feb 27: On the call of pro-Pakistan separatists, strikes were observed in Srinagar and Kishtwar areas of the state today against the arrest of Prof S A R Geelani and JNU students on the charges of sedition.
Geelani and JNU students were arrested by police for indulging in anti-national activities while observing the death anniversary of terrorist Afzal Guru who was convicted for his role in the December 2001 terrorist attack on Parliament. Nine persons, including eight security personnel and one gardener, were killed in the attack and 16 persons, including 13 security personnel, had received injuries. Five terrorists were shot dead by the troops.
In Srinagar, most of the shops, business establishments, petrol pumps and offices were shut in and around Lal Chowk and elsewhere in the city, while government offices witnessed thin attendance, official sources said.
Public transport was off the roads, however, private cars, cabs, and auto-rickshaws were seen plying at many places. Banks were closed on account of the fourth Saturday, while educational institutions were shut due to the ongoing winter vacations.
Meanwhile, a police spokesman said police and CRPF personnel had been deployed in strength in sensitive areas of the city to maintain law and order.
In Kishtwar too, a strike was observed on the separatists' call. People there also protested against the killing of a civilian in police action against the government land encroachers at Sarore in Samba district. The Gujjars, who have occupied government land at Sarore, had attacked the police party and also snatched their two weapons.
Most of shops and business establishments belonging to majority community were shut in and around Kishtwar Bus Stand and some other areas.
The protestors burnt used tyres to block the exit and entry points to the town. The area from Dak Banglow chowk to Malipath via DC office, police station and bus stand was worst affected by the strike.
A peaceful march from Jamia Masjid to Bus Stand, Kishtwar, was also held. No untoward incident was reported from anywhere.
The people also demanded action against the cop involved in the killing of civilian at Sarore. |
|
