Shutdown in Kashmir against arrest of youths hits normal life

Srinagar, May 15 (KMW): The normal life remained crippled as the valley on Thursday observed shutdown against ‘detention and arrests’ of youth and pro-freedom leaders on a strike call extended by Hurriyat Conference (G).
The shops and other business establishments remained closed and the public transport remained off the roads. However, the private vehicles were seen plying across the valley. While extending strike call, Syed Ali Geelani, Chairman Hurriyat (G) had, warned government that ‘if raids, arrests and atrocities doesn’t stop till 13 May, his faction of Hurriyat Conference will issue a ‘protest programme’.
Reports reaching KMW said that shops and other business establishments were shut in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and adjoining areas. The strike affected the normal business in other parts of the valley especially in North and South Kashmir. The schools and colleges were also shut. In civil lines and uptown areas of Srinagar, the shutdown call evoked mixed response. The government offices and banks recorded thin attendance but functioned normally. Authorities had kept additional police and paramilitary forces ready to tackle any eventuality.(KMW)