Strike Affects Normal Life in Kashmir

Srinagar: Normal life in Kashmir valley was on Friday disrupted due to a strike called by Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman in protest against alleged detention of “minors” for their involvement in pro –freedom activities, a claim rubbished by the police.
The police denying the allegations said that the minors still under detention were arrested in connection with rape, theft, eve-teasing, violation of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic substance Act (Drug Peddling), murder, kidnapping and other heinous social crimes.
Shops and other business establishments in the summer capital, Srinagar and its adjoining areas remained closed and traffic was off the roads.
However, fruits and vegetables shops were seen open in the uptown, particularly on airport road.
The roadside vendors, selling warm clothes, fruits and vegetables were doing business in the Civil Lines and other areas of the city.
Passenger transport remained off the road. However, private vehicles were plying on all routes.
Three wheelers again had a field day today, charging more from the passengers in the absence of normal transport service in the city and outskirts.
Transport service to different district headquarters and major towns also remained suspended due to strike.
Work in government offices and banks was affected due to the strike, called by Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Geelani demanding release of more than 50 minors allegedly detained in different jails in the state.
Majority of educational institutions had declared a holiday, fearing trouble.
Life was crippled in Baramulla and other north Kashmir towns due to strike with all shops and business establishments closed and traffic off the roads, a report said.
Transport was also off the road. However, private vehicles and three wheelers were seen on the roads.
Work in government offices and financial institutions was also affected due to the strike.