‘Civil curfew’ shuts Valley

Srinagar Life across the summer capital of the state remained crippled for the third consecutive day Monday in view of the civil curfew called by pro-freedom Hurriyat Conference (G) spearheading the ongoing ‘Quit Kashmir’ campaign.

Syed Ali Shah Geelani led Hurriyat faction in the latest resistance programme announced last week, had called for civil curfew for three consecutive days across the Valley beginning November 5, to attract the attention of United States, President, Barrack Hussain Obama who is currently on a trip to India. The veteran leader had also urged the internet users to submit online memorandum to the visiting dignitary.

Reports said that life remained affected for the third consecutive day today in almost all the major towns and districts of the Valley in view of the shutdown, called by Hurriyat Conference. All shops, government and private offices, banks and financial institutions, petrol pumps, business establishments remained closed throughout the day in response to the strike call. However, thin attendance was witnessed in government run offices and educational institutions. Public transport was also off the roads, while private vehicles were seen plying on all the major roads and highways across the Valley.

In Srinagar, the capital city, thousands of paramilitary CRPF troops and policemen armed with sophisticated weapons and riot gear guarded the deserted streets, lanes and by lanes to foil any attempt of the people to stage pro-freedom and anti-India demonstrations. However, co curfew or restrictions were imposed on the movement of people.

Reports of a complete shutdown have also been received from rest of the nine districts of the Valley.

“Preceding night passed off peacefully. So far, there are no reports of any untoward incident from any place. Situation at this hour is normal and under control throughout Kashmir valley,” a police spokesman in a statement said.

“There are no curfew restrictions across valley today,” the statement added.