Kashmir shuts down over civilian killings
PROTEST Four civilians were killed in different parts of the Valley during clashes with forces near encounter sites
SRINAGAR: A shutdown was observed in Kashmir on the call of separatist leadership to protest civilian killings and excesses by security forces during Cordon and Search Operations (CASO) launched in different parts of the Valley in the last one week since ceasefire was revoked.
The Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL) of separatists said that in the name of crackdown, security forces are “creating a 90s-like situation” and common people are being harassed for no reason.
Since ceasefire was revoked, the CASOS were being launched on a daily basis, especially in south Kashmir, and security had been beefed up in Srinagar city.
At least four civilians were killed in different parts of south Kashmir during clashes with forces near encounter sites where eight militants have been killed.
“We can’t be spectators to the brutal killings of unarmed protesters,’’ the JRL leadership said in a statement.
They also highlighted the inju- ries caused allegedly by use of pellets and bullets by security forces to disperse protesters.
Although shops and business establishments remained closed in the Valley, normal transport was plying on the roads. To prevent untoward incidents, additional forces were deployed at sensitive spots in Srinagar.
Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was put under house arrest and Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front chairman (JKLF) Yasin Malik was detained at Kothibagh police station on Monday, on apprehension that they will try to take out protest demonstrations in the city.
SITHARAMAN VISITS YATRA BASE CAMP
Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman and army chief General Bipin Rawat visited the base camp of Amarnath Yatra at Baltal in Sonmarg, Ganderbal district. Sitharaman reviewed security along the yatra route and directed officials to maintain high level security during the yatra which will start later this week. “The Raksha Mantri was briefed about the security and administrative arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. She was subsequently given an update by the Chinar Corps Commander in Badami Bagh Cantonment on the latest security scenario in the Valley,” defence ministry spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said.
The spokesman added that later, the minister also interacted with governor NN Vohra in Srinagar and discussed the overall security situation.
COLONEL KILLED IN ACCIDENTAL FIRING
A senior army officer was killed in South Kashmir when his rifle went off accidentally on Monday evening while he was travelling in his vehicle. Army has identified the officer as Colonel JV Mahadik who was posted in South Kashmir’s Khundroo area.
The Army said the officer’s rifle went off accidentally at Khundroo army camp. The officer was taken to where he succumbed to his injuries. The Army has ordered a probe.