Curfew remains in force in parts of Kashmir

Srinagar

Many shops and business establishments opened after sundown yesterday as the separatists had announced a relaxation in the agitation programme to allow people to buy essentials in view of the prolonged shut down since July 9 in the Valley.

However, all markets remained closed today and public transport was off the roads in view of the strike call given by the separatists.

Curfew remained in force in six police station areas of the city, Anantnag town, Kokernag and Khanpora in Baramulla district as restrictions on assembly of four or more people continued in entire Kashmir, a police official said.

"Curfew is in place only in six police station areas of Srinagar city - Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, Safakadal, Batamaloo and Maharajgunj," he said.

The separatist groups have been spearheading the agitation to protest the civilian killings during the protests following killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces on July 8.

Protests broke out across Kashmir Valley on July 9, leading to clashes with security forces in which 49 persons have been killed and over 5600 persons injured.

Mobile Internet services continued to remain snapped in the entire Valley where the postpaid mobile telephony service
have been restored across all networks.

The incoming facility on prepaid connections has also been restored, but the outgoing calls are barred on such numbers.

The separatist camp has extended the shutdown call in Kashmir till August 5, calling for a march to Hazratbal shrine on Friday.