Life returned to normal in most parts of Kashmir valley as the 50-hour strike called by separatists ended on Friday, but it remained crippled at some places for the third consecutive day after authorities imposed stringent security measures following a call by separatists to stage protests after
Friday prayers.
Government and semi-government organisations, educational institutions, banks, courts and business establishments reopened in the valley after the strike called from Tuesday evening against holding of parliamentary elections concluded, official sources said.
They said public and private transport also resumed operations.
However, life remained crippled for the third consecutive day in interior city as curfew-like situation prevailed in the areas falling under five police stations of Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainwari, M R Gunj and Safakadal to scuttle the plans of separatists to stage demonstrations after Friday prayers demanding release of detainees languishing in jails.
Hundreds of police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed to implement prohibitory orders under section 144 in the old city areas to maintain law and order, the sources said.
A peaceful demonstration has been called by the chairman of the hardline faction of Hurriyat Conference Syed Ali Shah Geelani.