Srinagar: Amid stringent restrictions in many old city areas, a complete strike was observed across Kashmir valley on Tuesday in response to calls given by various religious and separatist organizations to mourn and protest the gutting of historic Dastgeer Sahib Shrine in a devastating incident of fire on Monday.
“District Magistrate Srinagar has imposed restrictions under Section 144 on the movement of public and transport in Jurisdiction of 6 police stations in the Srinagar City till further ordersâ€, said an official spokesperson, naming the police stations as Khaynyar, Nowhatta, MR Gunj, Rainawari, Safakadak and Maisuma.
Reports from various old city areas claimed police had announced imposition of curfew; however, police rejected the claims saying restrictions under section 144 were imposed. “There was no curfew, however restrictions had been imposed in some areas as a preventive measureâ€, Inspector General of Police S M Sahai told. “Situation remained under control and no untoward incidents took placeâ€, said the IGP adding people cooperated with the authorities.
Protests and incidents of clashes were reported from various parts of the valley. Minor incidents of clashes were reported from Pampore, Nowgam, and Khayam areas; however police and CRPF managed to disperse the protesters. Amid tight restrictions, barricades and concertina blockades the old city areas were under virtual curfew and movement on roads was invisible.
Schools and colleges across the valley remained closed. Very thin attendance was recorded in government offices as no transport was plying on the roads.
